Attorney General's mother is laid to rest
Taoiseach Enda Kenny with Health Minister James Reilly and Attorney General Maire Whelan at her mother's funeral in Kinvara, Co Galway
A priest spoke yesterday of the pride felt by the late mother of Attorney General Maire Whelan at her daughter achieving such high office.
Fr Frank Larkin, parish priest of Kinvara, was speaking at the funeral Mass of Katherine (Katie) Whelan in south Galway.
Mrs Whelan died on New Year's Day at the age of 85.
Members of the Government, led by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, were present to join the Whelan family in mourning. Her husband John died some years ago.
Labour Party leader and Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore was accompanied by Communications Minister Pat Rabbitte while Health Minister James Reilly and junior minister Ciaran Cannon were also present.
President Michael D Higgins was represented by his aide de camp, Commandant Michael Walsh.
The chairman of the Bar Council, Paul O'Higgins, led members of the legal profession in offering their sympathy to the Attorney General.
Fr Larkin said that it was an occasion for all present to be thankful for the life of Katie Whelan. She had passed away after 11 weeks in hospital and Fr Larkin pointed out that old age was a great gift and should always be venerated.
Mrs Whelan had made a contribution to her family and to her community that would last forever, the priest stressed.
The mother of seven was a daily Mass-goer and had great dedication to Mary, the mother of god, Fr Larkin added.
"She had great pride in being the mother of the current Attorney General and in raising her family to all have successful lives," Fr Larkin said.
Four grandchildren read prayers for those bereaved and also for guidance for the nation's leaders.
Large numbers of the community were present and queued afterwards to offer their sympathy to Mrs Whelan's three daughters and four sons.
The burial took place at Mount Cross Cemetery.
- Brian McDonald
Irish Independent
