The late Pat Cooney, pictured in 2011 when he was awarded a Distinguished Fellowship by the then-Athlone Institute of Technology.

Westmeath Government Ministers pay tribute to late Pat Cooney

Adrian Cusack

Published: Mon 8 Dec 2025, 1:59 PM

Westmeath Government representatives have been paying tribute to Pat Cooney following the death of the former high-profile politician from Athlone on Saturday.

Mr Cooney, who was aged 94, served as Minister for Justice, Minister for Defence, Minister for Posts and Telegraphs, and Minister for Transport during the 1970s and '80s.

He was described as "a leading figure in Irish public life" by Minister of State Kevin 'Boxer' Moran.

"His decades of service as TD, Senator, Minister and MEP reflected his deep commitment to public service, especially to the people of Athlone, the constituency of Longford ‑ Westmeath, and the wider Midlands," said 'Boxer'.

"He was loyal and steadfast in his service to the State - a State he believed in strongly.

"He was a man who gave valued advice and support over the years, and I was always grateful to receive his wisdom," he added.

"At this time of loss, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to Pat's family - his sons Mark, Michael, Edward, and his daughter Catherine - as well as his wide circle of friends.

"His legacy of dedication and integrity will long be remembered."

Mr Cooney's Fine Gael party colleague, Minister Peter Burke, said he was "profoundly saddened" by the news of his passing at the weekend.

Minister Burke spoke of Mr Cooney's "long and distinguished career as a public representative" saying he "showed incredible bravery and integrity" throughout his political life.

"I think of his role during the 1973 to 1977 Government, when, as Minister for Justice, he defended the institutions of the State when they were under significant threat from subversives," said the Enterprise Minister.

"He was a true role model to me growing up, embodying the principles of public service and demonstrating what dedication and integrity can achieve in political life.

"He remained active in the community late into life, I remember meeting him at the Fine Gael Ard Fheis in Athlone three years ago when he gave me great advice after I had suffered a health scare.

"I think of Pat's family, in particular his sons, Mark, Michael, Edward and daughter Catherine, as well as his wide circle of friends and the community of Athlone at this difficult time," he added. "Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."