Judge leads emotional tribute to much-loved Donegal social worker Rhona Murphy

Tributes have been paid following the death of a much-loved social worker from Donegal.

District Court Judge Emile Daly led a dedication to Rhona Murphy.

Before embarking on her list at Thursday’s sitting of Letterkenny District Court, Judge Daly paid tribute Ms Murphy and expressed heartfelt condolences to her bereaved family.

Ms Murphy, who was married to Barry Coady and the mother of four children, died on December 28 at the Donegal Hospice and was laid to rest on New Year’s Eve in Cockhill graveyard. Ms Murphy was late of Oakfield Close, Buncrana and formerly of St Columba’s Avenue, Buncrana and Poles, Co Cavan.

A minute’s silence was also held prior to the commencement of the court at Letterkenny Courthouse.

In her professional role in court, Ms Murphy acted as guardian ad litem - an independent, court-appointed professional who represents a child's best interests and voice in legal proceedings, particularly in child welfare cases.

Judge Daly, the presiding judge in District Number One, said Ms Murphy was a “much-loved practitioner who appeared regularly at this court on childcare matters.”

Ms Murphy provided what Judge Daly said was “invaluable assistance” to the court and said news of her passing, following a very short illness, came with immense shock and sadness.

Ms Murphy appeared in courts across the country in her role.

Judge Daly said the late Ms Murphy was “admired, loved and respected” by other practitioners, court staff, Gardai, social workers and judges, “but most importantly by the many vulnerable children for whom she advocated and made sure their voice was heard”.

Judge Daly said: “She made sure that the interests of the children were always to the forefront.”

Ms Murphy became a qualified social worker in 2000 and worked with both the HSE and the Child and Family Agency. 

“She had a wealth of knowledge and was always up to date with new developments,” Judge Daly said. “She was, in a nutshell, an expert and her judgement was second to none. She had many skills: she was empathetic, a great communicator and was reasoned. She was able to see potential and a way forward for young people.

“She had a great ability to observe and she provided the court with clear insight into what the court needed to do.”

Judge Daly said Ms Murphy had “huge heart and desire” and was “someone who saw hope in challenging situations.”

The judge added: “She undertook her work with great positivity and a smile. It was clear that her heart was in the job and it was hard to see anyone more suited to the job.

“Rhona always enjoyed her court days in Letterkenny, which is a comfort for practitioners. She is certainly missed in this courtroom.”

Ms Murphy is survived by her beloved husband Barry Coady, their children Emily, Sophie, Elsa and Ben and her siblings Denyse, Derek and Ruth.