Fógraí bháis: Michael Lynch

The death took place on 26 September of Micheál O Loingsigh (Micheál Lynch) of Ballylongford, Co Kerry, a former republican prisoner who served 15 months in Portlaoise for membership of Oglaigh na hÉireann. Micheál joined the Republican Movement in 1970 and was a member of the Carmody/O'Rahilly Sinn Féin Cumann in the Ballylongford/Asdee area. He was also Adjutant and OC of the Kerry Command of Oglaigh na hÉireann. Micheál was arrested in March 1976 and was badly beaten. His father Tomás was also arrested and beaten at this time. Tomás Lynch had been an internee in the Curragh between 1940 and 1944. Micheál had a great love for the Irish language, traditional singing and dancing and, of course, the GAA. He played for the O'Rahilly's Football Club and served as an officer on the North Kerry GAA Board. He was very much to the fore in building a stand and also the Eddie Carmody Community Centre in Ballylongford, Eddie Carmody having been another great `Bally' republican who was murdered by the Black and Tans. In the latter stages of his illness, Micheál epitomised the true spirit and bravery of what republicans call `Unconquered Kerry'. Deepest sympathy is extended to his wife Kathleen, daughter Aoife, sons Andreas and Dara, uncle, sisters Marie and Siobhán, his brother Dónal, sister-in-law and brother-in-law. Also cousins, comrades and friends. `Sleep now, a Mhicheál, your part in the great work is over. Leave what's unfinished to those whom you inspired. Slán go fóill.'