Former Senator, Councillor and Lord Mayor of Dublin
By Liz Watson
Michael Donnelly first became a public representative for Fianna Fáil in 1977 when he was elected to Seanad Éireann on which he served until 1981. He served as a Dublin City Councillor for Dublin South East 1982-2009, during which he was Lord Mayor of Dublin, 1990-1991. Michael’s collaborative approach and gentleman-like manner ensured his popularity across political parties and among the electorate. Still today Michael is remembered by many throughout the South East Inner City electoral area as a gentleman, and a caring politician. Former political colleagues mentioned the “dependability” of Michael’s responses which were “always considered”.
An accountant by profession Michael was a graduate of UCD. He married and settled in Rathfarnham where the couple raised their three sons. Michael was supported in his public representation over the years by his loving and devoted family. He also served as the chairperson of the College of Commerce, council member of the College of Technology (Kevin Street), council member of Dublin’s VEC and Honorary Treasurer of PACE (Prisoners Aid Through Community Effort). As Lord Mayor, Michael challenged the negative stereotyping of older people. Michael was not the only famous family member, his brother, actor Donal Donnelly (1931-2010), is fondly remembered for the role of Freddy Malins in John Huston’s film “The Dead” a short story in Dubliners by James Joyce.
Michael’s time in politics was an exciting one, seeing him work alongside many household names including two local and well-known Ministers for State – Sean Moore (Defence) also a former Dublin City Councillor, Lord Mayor, TD and Chief Whip; and Eoin Ryan (Tourism, Sport & Recreation) also a former Dublin City Councillor, Senator, TD, and MEP. And of course the newly appointed Minister for Justice, and local TD, Jim O’Callaghan. During his years on the Seanad, 1977-1981, change was rippling across the Dublin South East communities of City Quay/Pearse Street and Ringsend/Irishtown with the development of housing in City Quay, Pearse Street, and Pigeon House Road, campaigned for robustly by the local community. Also the development of the IDA complex promoting innovation and enterprise for much needed jobs was also underway. Michael supported these changes and improvements through public policy.
Sadly, Michael passed away in December 2024. Our deepest condolences go to Michael’s family and loved ones. Our sincere thanks to Michael for his many years of dedicated service as a public representative. Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.
