Sinn Féin elected representatives, Bundoran Town Councillor Michael Mc Mahon and TD for Donegal South West, Deputy Pearse Doherty have expressed their sadness at the passing of party colleague and prominent republican Anthony O’Malley Daly this morning.
Speaking today Cllr Michael McMahon said: “I would like to pay tribute to Anthony O’Malley Daly, a prominent local republican and former Sinn Féin Town Commissioner for Ballyshannon.
“Anthony was a proud Sinn Féin representative and his period in office as a Town Commissioner spanned the decades of the 70s, 80s and early 90s during the worst years of the conflict in the North. During this period, Anthony held the distinguished title of Chairman of the Town Commission twice for the period of 1984-85 and 1987-88.
“In later life, Anthony suffered with Parkinson’s disease and showed indefatigable spirit and courage in battling with his illness. In 2007 he was named Ballyshannon Person of the Year and in 2010 he was named the Rehab Donegal Person of the year.
“Anthony was an irrepressible character and a huge asset to the republican movement in the area. His passing today will touch the hearts of many in his native Ballyshannon and beyond.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathies to his wife Mary, children Darragh, Patrick, Orla and Sarah, his grandchildren, great grandchild and his many extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
Deputy Pearse Doherty said: “It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Anthony O’Malley Daly today.
“A keen fisherman, journalist, local political figure, dedicated republican and family man, Anthony packed so much into a remarkable life. I will always remember him as a man who showed great strength of character and a true dedication in serving his local community.
“I would like to extend sincere sympathies and solidarity on behalf of Sinn Féin in Donegal to Anthony’s family and friends. Our thoughts are with you today in your grief. Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam.”