WELL-KNOWN PRIEST Father Brian D’Arcy has been confirmed as the chief celebrant of Monday’s State Funeral service for Albert Reynolds.
The Enniskillen-based priest is also a broadcaster and newspaper columnist, and has long been associated with figures from the world of showbands.
Reynolds had a successful career as a businessman before entering politics at the relatively late age of 44, and made much of his income in the 1960s from showband venues.
The former Taoiseach, who died on Thursday morning aged 81, served as Taoiseach during two separate terms between 1992 and 1994.
Full details of his removal and funeral services have been confirmed this evening.
There will be a lying in repose in the Oak Room at Dublin’s Mansion House tomorrow between 1pm and 6pm, allowing anyone wishing to pay their respects to file past the coffin. A book of condolences will also be available.
His body will be removed to the Sacred Heart Church in Donnybrook at 7.30pm, in advance of the funeral mass at the church on Monday at noon.
Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin will be a con-celebrant of the mass, along with a number of other priests, including celebrants from the parish.
A book of condolence opened at Fianna Fáil head office in Dublin this afternoon.
President, Michael D Higgins, Taoiseach Enda Kenny and other figures from across the political divide will attend the service, which will be covered live on RTÉ 1 television.
The funeral cortege will proceed to Shanganagh Cemetery in Shankill, south county Dublin, where the former Taoiseach will be laid to rest with full military honours.
Current affairs presenter David McCullough will anchor Monday’s RTÉ news special, which is set to get under way at 11.30am.
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