Michael O’Brien, abuse survivor and former mayor who took government to task, dies aged 92

Michael O’Brien (92) appeared on RTÉ’s Questions and Answers programme on May 25, 2009, and outlined in detail his experiences of being abused as a child in St Joseph’s Industrial School in Clonmel, Co Tipperary.

Mr O’Brien was addressing then-minister Noel Dempsey, following the publication of the Ryan report into clerical abuse.

Mr O’Brien, a former local councillor, also served as a Fianna Fáil Lord Mayor of Clonmel in 1993.

In the programme, Mr O’Brien detailed his own experiences with the commission. He said he tried to take his own life after spending five days at the commission. “They brought a man over from Rome, 90-odd years of age to tell me I was telling lies, that I wasn’t beaten for an hour, non-stop, by two of them,” Mr O’Brien said.

During his contribution, he also addressed panel member Leo Varadkar, saying: “Can I speak to you and ask your leader [Enda Kenny] to stop making a political football out of this?” Mr O’Brien said.

“You hurt us [survivors] when you do that. You tear the shreds from inside our body. For God’s sake, try and give us some peace, try and give us some peace, and not continue hurting us.”

Afterwards, presenter John Bowman said that Mr O’Brien’s speech was the most memorable moment in 23 years of the show.

Paying tribute after the news of Mr O’Brien’s death, one friend wrote on the RIP funeral notices website: “Michael’s words in 2009 inspired so many people and echoed the frustrations of this country. Deepest sympathies to the O’Brien family at this difficult time. RIP Michael’’.

Another friend wrote ‘’Rest in Eternal Peace, Michael. Your bravery in speaking out about all that you suffered as a child speaks volumes! You deserve the heaven of heavens after all that you suffered!! Your life and witness will never be forgotten!!!’’

Mr O’Brien was predeceased by his wife Mary, and is survived by his children Geraldine, Peter, Martin and Catriona.

His remains will repose at Fennessy’s Funeral Home in Clonmel this evening from 5pm to 7pm with removal on Thursday morning to St Mary’s Church, Irishtown, at 10am followed by interment in St. Patrick’s Cemetery.