Tributes paid by Sinn Féin figures on death of ‘proud republican’ Mary Doherty

Tributes have been paid on her death to Mary Doherty, “a proud republican” and wife of former Sinn Féin vice-president Pat Doherty.

The mother of five passed away at her Carrigart home. Born in Castlebar in County Mayo, she emigrated to Glasgow just after the second world war.

She returned to Donegal in 1967, where she and Pat raised their five children.

As a mature student, she obtained a master’s degree in Irish History and Politics from the University of Ulster, Magee.

Mr Doherty, from Carrigart, served as the vice-president of Sinn Féin from 1998 to 2009, was an MP for West Tyrone from 2001 until his retirement from politics in 2017 and also served as an MLA from 1998 to 2012.

He was a key member of the talks that led to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.

In 2023, Sinn Féin in Donegal honoured the couple at a special function in Letterkenny which was attended by many leading lights in the party including leader Mary Lou McDonald.

Donegal TD and Sinn Féin Dáil deputy leader Pearse Doherty led the tribute describing her as “a proud republican who dedicated so much of her life to advancing the cause of Irish freedom”.

She was “loved and respected by so many across Donegal and further afield”, he said.

“She will always be remembered for her kindness and unwavering commitment.”

Donegal Sinn Féin TD Pádraig MacLochlainn said Republicans in Donegal and across Ireland are deeply saddened at the news of her death.

“Mary was a proud Republican and, alongside Pat and their family, dedicated many years to the struggle for Irish freedom and justice,” he said.

“She was held in great affection across the island and will be remembered for her warmth, kindness and steadfast commitment.”

Her funeral is taking place on Friday, July 31 with requiem Mass in St John the Baptist church, Carrigart, at 2pm.