Former Sinn Fein MP Mickey Brady has been remembered as the "people's champion" during an emotional funeral service in his hometown of Newry, where political colleagues and family members paid heartfelt tribute to his lifelong dedication to community service and socialist principles.
A Life of Service and Advocacy
Sinn Fein Infrastructure Minister and MLA for Newry and Armagh, Liz Kimmins, delivered a moving eulogy at the mass held in St Catherine's church on Dominic Street. She described Mr Brady as someone who consistently defended "the most vulnerable in our communities" throughout his remarkable career.
Mr Brady, who passed away in hospital aged 75 on January 16, served as Sinn Fein MLA for Newry and Armagh from 2007 to 2015 before becoming the constituency's MP from 2015 to 2024. His political journey followed decades of grassroots activism, having established and run a pioneering welfare rights advice centre in Newry.
Unwavering Commitment to Community
Ms Kimmins shared numerous anecdotes illustrating Mr Brady's extraordinary commitment, noting that since his passing she had "heard countless stories of the help Mickey provided to thousands of people for over 50 years." She highlighted his role as the first Welfare Rights Officer in Northern Ireland, describing how he embarked on his mission in 1981 "set to change the lives of people from all backgrounds, bar none."
"Office hours meant nothing to Mickey," Ms Kimmins revealed. "No matter where or when you met him with a problem, his generosity of time and willingness ensured no one was turned away. This was a trait that Mickey carried right through up until just a few weeks ago, when, despite having retired the previous year, he was still filling out benefits forms and seeing people in our offices."
Political Journey and Personal Character
The funeral was attended by prominent Sinn Fein figures including party president Mary Lou McDonald and vice president Michelle O'Neill, reflecting Mr Brady's significant standing within the republican movement. Ms Kimmins described his transition into elected politics as "a natural progression for a strong socialist and republican," noting his distinctive appearance with trademark denims and long hair that became part of his public identity.
"Mickey was synonymous with standing up for the underdog, standing up for what was right, and ensuring those who needed it most got what they were entitled to," she declared. "From civil rights to Tory cuts, fighting for Daisy Hill and standing up for Palestine, Mickey was always on the front line defending the most vulnerable in our communities."
Family Tributes and Personal Legacy
Mr Brady's daughter Saoirse offered a deeply personal tribute, describing her father as a "caring husband, a loving and dedicated father, a devoted and doting grandfather." She shared touching family memories, including how he would conclude every speech with the Irish phrase "tiocfaidh ár lá" (our day will come), even during wedding speeches.
"Even in my last conversation with him, just over a week ago, we talked about how he hoped to see a united Ireland for all, where everyone was welcome and equality was paramount," she revealed. "Even in death, he's still fighting the good fight, and has raised almost £5,000 for medical aid for Palestinians, a cause that was always close to his heart."
Symbolic Offerings and Lasting Impact
During the offertory procession, symbolic items brought to the altar included a medal Mr Brady won in a squash tournament and writings from prison by Bobby Sands, reflecting both his personal interests and political convictions. Father Gerard Tremer, who led the service, spoke of Mr Brady's role as a beacon of hope during difficult times.
"Families came to Mickey feeling down and dejected with little hope of improvement during periods of high unemployment here in Newry and throughout Northern Ireland," Father Tremer said. "Mickey became their bright star in a dark, dark night during dark, dark times. He was one of their own. He was on their side."
Ms Kimmins concluded her tribute by describing Mr Brady as "one of the funniest, kindest people you could ever meet with the most incredible memory," adding that "without him, the lives of many would have turned out very differently." She noted that his legacy would continue through his family and the community he served so faithfully, declaring him both a family hero and the true "people's champion."
