Taoiseach’s Statement following the death of Dermot Nally

I learned today with great sadness of the death of Dermot Nally, a distinguished public servant and for many years Secretary to the Government.

Mr. Nally is particularly remembered for his contribution over many years in relation to Northern Ireland. With key roles at Sunningdale and in the development of the Anglo Irish Agreement, he continued to be involved after his retirement in December 1992.

He was additionally a pioneer and enthusiastic advocate of Irish membership of the EU, attending all meetings of the European Council from Ireland’s accession until he retired.

Mr. Nally’s death will be noted with regret by all with whom he worked over the years. Taoisigh, Ministers and official colleagues alike had a high regard for his acumen and for his advice on issues of administration and government.

I offer my deepest sympathy and the sympathy of the Government to Dermot’s wife, Joan, and to his family.

Ends

30^th December 2009

Note for Editors:

Dermot Nally joined the Office of Public Works in 1947. He served in the Department of Local Government from 1952 until January 1973 when he joined the Department of the Taoiseach as Assistant Secretary. Appointed Secretary to the Government in 1980, he served in this post until retirement in 1992. He was Assistant Secretary under Jack Lynch and Liam Cosgrave, and Secretary to the Government under Charles Haughey, Garrett Fitzgerald and Albert Reynolds.