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{{short description|Irish politician, 18th Tánaiste (deputy Prime Minister)}} {{Short description|Irish politician (born 1953)}}
{{Use Hiberno-English|date=October 2014}} {{Use Hiberno-English|date=June 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2020}} {{Use dmy dates|date=June 2024}}
{{Infobox officeholder {{Infobox officeholder
| name = Mary Harney
| image = Mary Harney cropped.jpg | image = Mary Harney cropped.jpg
| caption = Mary Harney in 2007 | caption = Harney in 2007
| imagesize = 200px
| office = ] | office = ]
| taoiseach = ]<br />] | taoiseach = {{ubl|]|]}}
| term_start = 29 September 2004 | term_start = 29 September 2004
| term_end = 19 January 2011 | term_end = 19 January 2011
Line 14: Line 12:
| successor = ] | successor = ]
| office1 = ] | office1 = ]
| taoiseach1 = ] | taoiseach1 = Bertie Ahern
| predecessor1 = ] | predecessor1 = ]
| successor1 = ] | successor1 = Micheál Martin
| term_start1 = 26 June 1997 | term_start1 = 26 June 1997
| term_end1 = 13 September 2004 | term_end1 = 13 September 2004
| office2 = ] | office2 = ]
| taoiseach2 = Bertie Ahern
| predecessor2 = ]
| successor2 = ] | predecessor2 = ]
| successor2 = ]
| term_start2 = 25 May 2007
| term_end2 = 17 April 2008 | term_start2 = 26 June 1997
| term_end2 = 13 September 2006
| predecessor3 = ]
| office3 = ]
| successor3 = ]
| predecessor3 = Michael McDowell
| term_start3 = 26 October 1993
| term_end3 = 11 September 2006 | successor3 = ]
| term_start3 = 25 May 2007
| office4 = ]
| taoiseach4 = ] | term_end3 = 17 April 2008
| predecessor4 = ] | predecessor4 = ]
| successor4 = ] | successor4 = Michael McDowell
| term_start4 = 26 June 1997 | term_start4 = 26 October 1993
| term_end4 = 13 September 2006 | term_end4 = 11 September 2006
| office5 = ] | office5 = ]
| suboffice5 = ]
| term_start5 = ]
| subterm5 = 1989–1992
| term_end5 = ]
| office6 = ]
| constituency5 = ]
| term_start6 = ] | term_start6 = ]
| term_end6 = ] | term_end6 = ]
| constituency6 = ] | constituency6 = ]
| office7 = ] | term_start7 = ]
| term_end7 = ]
| term_start7 = October 1977
| constituency7 = ]
| term_end7 = June 1981
| office8 = ]
| constituency7 = ]
| term_start8 = 27 October 1977
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1953|3|11|df=yes}}
| term_end8 = 11 June 1981
| birth_place = ], ], Ireland
| constituency8 = ]
| death_date =
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1953|3|11|df=y}}
| death_place =
| birth_place = ], ], Ireland
| party = ] (Since 2009)
| death_date =
| otherparty = {{Nowrap|] (1985–2009)<br />] (1977–1985)}}
| residence = | death_place =
| party = ] (since 2009)
| spouse = Brian Geoghegan
| otherparty = {{ubl|]<br/>(1985–2009)|] (1977–1985)}}
| spouse = {{marriage|Brian Geoghegan|2001}}
| alma_mater = ] | alma_mater = ]
| nationality = ] | nationality = ]
}} }}
'''Mary Harney''' (born 11 March 1953) is an Irish former politician and the current ] of the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/mary-harney-appointed-as-chancellor-of-university-of-limerick-1.3349851|title=Mary Harney appointed as chancellor of University of Limerick|work=]|first=Carl|last=O'Brien|date=9 January 2018|access-date=1 November 2019|archive-date=9 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109003704/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/mary-harney-appointed-as-chancellor-of-university-of-limerick-1.3349851|url-status=live}}</ref> '''Mary Harney''' (born 11 March 1953) is an Irish former politician and the former ] of the ].<ref>{{cite news |last=O'Brien |first=Carl |title=Mary Harney appointed as chancellor of University of Limerick |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/mary-harney-appointed-as-chancellor-of-university-of-limerick-1.3349851 |url-status=live |newspaper=] |date=9 January 2018 |access-date=1 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109003704/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/education/mary-harney-appointed-as-chancellor-of-university-of-limerick-1.3349851 |archive-date=9 November 2020}}</ref>


She was leader of the ] party between 1993 and 2006 and again from 2007 to 2008, resuming her role in 2007 after her successor, ], lost his seat at the ]. She is the ] of ], serving as a member ] (TD) for the ] and ] constituencies from 1981 to 2011. She was leader of the ] party between 1993 and 2006 and again from 2007 to 2008, resuming the role after her successor, ], lost his seat at the ]. She is the ] of ], serving as a ] (TD) successively for the ] and ] constituencies from 1981 to 2011.<ref>{{cite news |title=Harney was impressive in her day but her legacy leaves a lot to be desired |url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/columnists/arid-20142014.html |url-status=live |work=] |date=14 January 2011 |access-date=22 January 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111118050421/http://examiner.ie/opinion/columnists/matt-cooper/harney-was-impressive-in-her-day-but-her-legacy-leaves-a-lot-to-be-desired-142014.html |archive-date=18 November 2011}}</ref>
<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.examiner.ie/opinion/columnists/matt-cooper/harney-was-impressive-in-her-day-but-her-legacy-leaves-a-lot-to-be-desired-142014.html|title=Harney was impressive in her day but her legacy leaves a lot to be desired|work=]|date=14 January 2011|access-date=22 January 2011|archive-date=18 November 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111118050421/http://examiner.ie/opinion/columnists/matt-cooper/harney-was-impressive-in-her-day-but-her-legacy-leaves-a-lot-to-be-desired-142014.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


She was Ireland's first female ] from 1997 to 2006 and the first woman to lead a party in ].<ref>{{cite news |date=7 September 2006 |title=Harney first woman to lead Irish political party |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/harney-first-woman-to-lead-irish-political-party-1.795976 |work=] |access-date=29 March 2020 |archive-date=27 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927235948/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/harney-first-woman-to-lead-irish-political-party-1.795976 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.rte.ie/archives/2017/0502/871900-mary-harney-progressive-democrats-leader/ |title=Harney Leader of the PDs |access-date=29 March 2020 |archive-date=29 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329075001/https://www.rte.ie/archives/2017/0502/871900-mary-harney-progressive-democrats-leader/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She was Ireland's first female ] from 1997 to 2006, and the first woman to lead a party in Dáil Éireann.<ref>{{cite news |date=7 September 2006 |title=Harney first woman to lead Irish political party |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/harney-first-woman-to-lead-irish-political-party-1.795976 |newspaper=The Irish Times |access-date=29 March 2020 |archive-date=27 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927235948/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/harney-first-woman-to-lead-irish-political-party-1.795976 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.rte.ie/archives/2017/0502/871900-mary-harney-progressive-democrats-leader/ |title=Harney Leader of the PDs |website=] |access-date=29 March 2020 |archive-date=29 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329075001/https://www.rte.ie/archives/2017/0502/871900-mary-harney-progressive-democrats-leader/ |url-status=live}}</ref>


==Early life and education== ==Early life and education==
Harney was born in Portiuncula Hospital, ], ] in 1953.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0818/1224277072513.html|title=2,000 protest against cuts at Ballinasloe hospital|work=]|date=18 August 2010|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023004903/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0818/1224277072513.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Her parents, who lived in nearby ], were both farmers but her family moved to ] shortly after her birth. She was educated at the Convent of Mercy, ] and Presentation Convent, ] before studying at ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.ul.ie/news-centre/news/former-tánaiste-mary-harney-announced-ul-chancellor|title=Former Tánaiste Mary Harney announced as UL Chancellor|publisher=]|date=9 January 2018|access-date=27 September 2021|archive-date=18 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618163751/https://www.ul.ie/news-centre/news/former-t%C3%A1naiste-mary-harney-announced-ul-chancellor|url-status=live}}</ref> Harney was born in Portiuncula Hospital, ], ], in 1953.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0818/1224277072513.html|title=2,000 protest against cuts at Ballinasloe hospital|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=18 August 2010|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023004903/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0818/1224277072513.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Her parents, who lived in nearby ], were both farmers, but shortly after her birth her family moved to ]. She was educated at the Convent of Mercy, ], and Presentation Convent, ], before studying at ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.ul.ie/news-centre/news/former-tánaiste-mary-harney-announced-ul-chancellor|title=Former Tánaiste Mary Harney announced as UL Chancellor|publisher=]|date=9 January 2018|access-date=27 September 2021|archive-date=18 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618163751/https://www.ul.ie/news-centre/news/former-t%C3%A1naiste-mary-harney-announced-ul-chancellor|url-status=live}}</ref>


During her time at university, she made history by becoming the first female auditor (leader) of the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/features/2010/0219/1224264788658.html|title=Where the sharpest pit their wits|work=]|date=19 February 2010|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=20 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020044225/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/features/2010/0219/1224264788658.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1976, she graduated with a third class Bachelor of Arts in Economic and Social Studies, and for a brief time was a secondary school teacher at ] in Dublin. During her time in Trinity, she became the first female auditor (chair) of the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/features/2010/0219/1224264788658.html|title=Where the sharpest pit their wits|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=19 February 2010|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=20 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020044225/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/features/2010/0219/1224264788658.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1976, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economic and Social Studies, and for a brief time was a secondary school teacher at ] in Dublin.


==Political career: 1977–2011== ==Political career: 1977–2011==


===Fianna Fáil: 1977–1985=== ===Fianna Fáil: 1977–1985===
Harney came to the attention of ] leader ], and stood unsuccessfully as a Fianna Fáil candidate in the ]. She was then ] to ] by Lynch who had become ].<ref name=oireachtas_db>{{cite web|url=https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/member/Mary-Harney.S.1977-10-27/|title=Mary Harney|work=Oireachtas Members Database|access-date=13 April 2009|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922072552/https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/member/Mary-Harney.S.1977-10-27/|url-status=live}}</ref> She was the youngest ever member of the Seanad when appointed, aged 24.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2011/0119/breaking60.html|title=Minister for Health Mary Harney tenders resignation|work=]|date=19 January 2011|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023004839/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2011/0119/breaking60.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Harney came to the attention of ] leader ], and stood unsuccessfully as a Fianna Fáil candidate in the ]. She was then ] to ] by Lynch who had become ].<ref name=oireachtas_db>{{cite web|url=https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/member/Mary-Harney.S.1977-10-27/|title=Mary Harney|work=Oireachtas Members Database|access-date=13 April 2009|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922072552/https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/member/Mary-Harney.S.1977-10-27/|url-status=live}}</ref> She was the youngest ever member of the Seanad when appointed, aged 24.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2011/0119/breaking60.html|title=Minister for Health Mary Harney tenders resignation|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=19 January 2011|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023004839/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2011/0119/breaking60.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


In 1979, Harney had her first electoral success when she was elected to ]. Two years later she was elected to the ] at the ] for ]. She retained her seat at every election until her retirement in 2011, moving to the new ] constituency at the ] when it was created from part of Dublin South-West.<ref name=elecs_irl>{{cite web|url=http://www.electionsireland.org/candidate.cfm?ID=898|title=Mary Harney|work=ElectionsIreland.org|access-date=13 April 2009|archive-date=15 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090415174325/http://electionsireland.org/candidate.cfm?ID=898|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1979, Harney had her first electoral success when she was elected to ]. Two years later she was elected to the ] at the ] for ]. She retained her seat at every election until her retirement in 2011, moving to the new ] constituency at the ] when it was created from part of Dublin South-West.<ref name=elecs_irl>{{cite web|url=http://www.electionsireland.org/candidate.cfm?ID=898|title=Mary Harney|work=ElectionsIreland.org|access-date=13 April 2009|archive-date=15 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090415174325/http://electionsireland.org/candidate.cfm?ID=898|url-status=live}}</ref>


After the killers of gay man ] received suspended sentences, Harney challenged then Minister for Justice ] to seek the resignation of the judge.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/declan-flynn-queer-bashing-murder-still-very-raw-36-years-on-1.3548395|title=Declan Flynn 'queer-bashing' murder 'still very raw' 36 years on|first=Simon Carswell Public Affairs|last=Editor|website=The Irish Times|access-date=24 April 2021|archive-date=24 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424204114/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/declan-flynn-queer-bashing-murder-still-very-raw-36-years-on-1.3548395|url-status=live}}</ref> After the killers of gay man ] received suspended sentences, Harney challenged then Minister for Justice ] to seek the resignation of the judge.<ref>{{cite news |last=Carswell |first=Simon |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/declan-flynn-queer-bashing-murder-still-very-raw-36-years-on-1.3548395 |title=Declan Flynn 'queer-bashing' murder 'still very raw' 36 years on|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=24 April 2021|archive-date=24 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210424204114/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/social-affairs/declan-flynn-queer-bashing-murder-still-very-raw-36-years-on-1.3548395|url-status=live}}</ref>


As a member of the so-called ], she was expelled from the party after voting in favour of the ] in 1985.<ref name=irishtimes_20012011>{{cite news|first1=Mary|last1=Minihan|first2=Stephen|last2=Collins|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0120/1224287943668.html|title=Harney calls time on a life in politics with a vow to stay silent during election campaign|work=]|date=20 January 2011|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023005623/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0120/1224287943668.html|url-status=live}}</ref> As a member of the so-called ], she was expelled from the party after voting in favour of the ] in 1985.<ref name=irishtimes_20012011>{{cite news |last1=Minihan |first1=Mary |last2=Collins |first2=Stephen |title=Harney calls time on a life in politics with a vow to stay silent during election campaign |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0120/1224287943668.html |url-status=live |newspaper=The Irish Times |date=20 January 2011 |access-date=20 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023005623/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0120/1224287943668.html |archive-date=23 October 2012}}</ref>


===Foundation of Progressive Democrats: 1985–1997=== ===Foundation of Progressive Democrats: 1985–1997===
Harney went on to become a founder member of the Progressive Democrats with ] and ] in December 1985. Harney went on to become a founder member of the Progressive Democrats with ] and ] in December 1985.


Following the ] the Progressive Democrats entered into a ] government with Fianna Fáil, led at the time by ]. Harney was appointed ]. As Minister of State she championed legislation to ban the sale of bituminous coal in Dublin, thereby eliminating smog from the city. She served in this position until the party withdrew from government in late 1992. In February 1993, Harney was appointed Deputy Leader of the Progressive Democrats, and succeeded O'Malley as party Leader in October of that year, making her the first female leader of an Irish political party in Dáil Eireann.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maryharney.ie/|title=Mary Harney biography|work=maryharney.ie (Wayback machine)|access-date=13 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040405022524/http://www.maryharney.ie/|archive-date=5 April 2004}}</ref> Following the ] the Progressive Democrats entered into a ] government with Fianna Fáil, led at the time by ]. Harney was appointed ]. As Minister of State she championed legislation to ban the sale of bituminous coal in Dublin, thereby eliminating smog from the city. She served in this position until the party withdrew from government in late 1992. In February 1993, Harney was appointed deputy leader of the Progressive Democrats, and succeeded O'Malley as party leader in October of that year, making her the first female leader of an Irish political party in Dáil Eireann.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maryharney.ie/|title=Mary Harney biography|work=maryharney.ie (Wayback machine)|access-date=13 April 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040405022524/http://www.maryharney.ie/|archive-date=5 April 2004}}</ref>


===Entering coalition with Fianna Fáil again: 1997–2004=== ===Return to coalition with Fianna Fáil: 1997–2004===
Following the ] and lengthy negotiations, the Progressive Democrats entered into coalition government with Fianna Fáil. Harney was appointed the first female Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Harney used her powers to initiate thirteen investigations into companies which tribunals had suggested might have breached company law.<ref name="McNamara 2019">McNamara,Maedhbh. A womans's place is in the Cabinet:women ministers in Irish governments 1919-2019. Drogheda, Sea Dog Books,2020.ISBN 978-1-913275-06-8</ref> After the ] Harney led the Progressive Democrats, who had doubled their seats from four to eight, back into coalition with Fianna Fáil, the first time a government had been re-elected since 1969. She was re-appointed Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. She inaugurated the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) in May 2004, to reduce high litigation costs in personal injuries cases and to compensate claimants quickly and cheaply. This was a major reform of the insurance market long opposed by the legal profession.<ref name="McNamara 2019"/> Following the ] and lengthy negotiations, the Progressive Democrats entered into coalition government with Fianna Fáil. Harney was appointed the first female ] and first female ]. Harney used her powers to initiate thirteen investigations into companies which tribunals had suggested might have breached company law.<ref name="McNamara 2019">McNamara,Maedhbh. A woman's place is in the Cabinet: women ministers in Irish governments 1919-2019. Drogheda, Sea Dog Books,2020.ISBN 978-1-913275-06-8</ref> After the ] Harney led the Progressive Democrats, who had doubled their seats from four to eight, back into coalition with Fianna Fáil, the first time a government had been re-elected since 1969. She was re-appointed Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. She inaugurated the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) in May 2004, to reduce high litigation costs in personal injuries cases and to compensate claimants quickly and cheaply. This was a major reform of the insurance market long opposed by the legal profession.<ref name="McNamara 2019"/>


Harney was Ireland's representative to the ] for the ].<ref>At a time when Ireland held the rotating Presidency of the ]</ref> Because the Council's first reading fell during the Irish ], she was chair of the meeting that discarded the amendments by the ] which confirmed the exclusion of software innovations from what constitutes patentable subject matter.{{citation needed|date=February 2011}} Harney was Ireland's representative to the ] for the ].<ref>At a time when Ireland held the rotating Presidency of the ]</ref> Because the council's first reading fell during the Irish ], she was chair of the meeting that discarded the amendments by the ] which confirmed the exclusion of software innovations from what constitutes patentable subject matter.{{citation needed|date=February 2011}}


In December 2001, Harney controversially used an Air Corps aircraft<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2002/0117/aircorps.html|title=Tánaiste stands over use of Air Corps aircraft|work=RTÉ News|date=17 January 2002|access-date=20 August 2007|archive-date=24 August 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040824014522/http://www.rte.ie/news/2002/0117/aircorps.html|url-status=live}}</ref> to travel to ] to open a friend's ] in ]; the trip cost €1,500. Harney later apologised for having abused her position in using the plane for non-government business and admitted that using the plane was wrong. The aircraft was to be used 90% of the time exclusively for maritime surveillance.<ref name=plane>{{cite news|url=http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=9&si=673919&issue_id=6744|title=Harney's humble pie over plane 'outrage'|work=Irish Independent|date=19 January 2002|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=3 May 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050503043748/http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=9&si=673919&issue_id=6744|url-status=live}}</ref> In December 2001, Harney controversially used an Air Corps aircraft<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2002/0117/aircorps.html|title=Tánaiste stands over use of Air Corps aircraft|publisher=]|date=17 January 2002|access-date=20 August 2007|archive-date=24 August 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040824014522/http://www.rte.ie/news/2002/0117/aircorps.html|url-status=live}}</ref> to travel to ] to open a friend's ] in ]; the trip cost €1,500. Harney later apologised for having abused her position in using the plane for non-government business, and admitted that using the plane was wrong. The aircraft was to be used 90% of the time exclusively for maritime surveillance.<ref name=plane>{{cite news|url=http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=9&si=673919&issue_id=6744|title=Harney's humble pie over plane 'outrage'|work=Irish Independent|date=19 January 2002|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=3 May 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050503043748/http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=9&si=673919&issue_id=6744|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Minister for Health and Children: 2004–2011=== ===Minister for Health and Children: 2004–2011===
In a government reshuffle on 29 September 2004 Harney was appointed Minister for Health and Children. In a government reshuffle on 29 September 2004, Harney was appointed Minister for Health and Children.


In May 2006, the Irish Nurses Organisation unanimously passed a motion of no confidence in Mary Harney, accusing her of being negative and antagonistic towards nurses.<ref name=rte_nurses>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0505/nurses.html|title=INO passes vote of no confidence in Harney|work=RTÉ News|date=5 May 2006|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=14 February 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070214072742/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0505/nurses.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Her policy of transferring private beds in public hospitals to privately operated hospitals also attracted criticism.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tascnet.ie/upload/Connor%20Sunday%20Business%20Post,%20Aug%2028th%202005.pdf|title=The regressive nature of Mary Harney's proposals leaves them open to abuse|author=Tom O'Connor|work=Sunday Business Post|date=28 August 2005|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=29 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929035859/http://www.tascnet.ie/upload/Connor%20Sunday%20Business%20Post,%20Aug%2028th%202005.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2006, the Irish Nurses Organisation unanimously passed a motion of no confidence in Mary Harney, accusing her of being negative and antagonistic towards nurses.<ref name=rte_nurses>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0505/nurses.html|title=INO passes vote of no confidence in Harney|publisher=RTÉ News|date=5 May 2006|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=14 February 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070214072742/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0505/nurses.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Her policy of transferring private beds in public hospitals to privately operated hospitals also attracted criticism.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tascnet.ie/upload/Connor%20Sunday%20Business%20Post,%20Aug%2028th%202005.pdf|title=The regressive nature of Mary Harney's proposals leaves them open to abuse|author=Tom O'Connor|work=Sunday Business Post|date=28 August 2005|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=29 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929035859/http://www.tascnet.ie/upload/Connor%20Sunday%20Business%20Post,%20Aug%2028th%202005.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>


In March 2006, 16 months after she took office as health minister, the INO claimed that a record number of 455 people were waiting on hospital trolleys on one day (although the ] gave a figure of 363 people waiting on hospital trolleys for the same day).<ref name=rte_trolleys>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0307/trolleys.html|title=Dispute over A&E trolley counts|work=RTÉ News|date=7 March 2006|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=12 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312192727/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0307/trolleys.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2006 the ] ranked the Irish health service as the second-least "consumer-friendly" in the European Union and Switzerland, coming 25th out of 26 countries, ahead of only Lithuania.<ref name=european_rankings>{{cite news|url=http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=133&si=1641366&issue_id=14261|title=Our health service is the shame of Europe|work=Irish Independent|date=27 June 2006|access-date=27 June 2006|archive-date=7 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707000528/http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=133&si=1641366&issue_id=14261|url-status=live}}</ref> However, when the same survey was conducted a year later, the Irish health service showed significant improvement, coming 16th out of 29 countries. Ireland even scored higher than Britain's ] which came 17th in the survey. In March 2006, 16 months after she took office as health minister, the INO claimed that a record number of 455 people were waiting on hospital trolleys on one day (although the ] gave a figure of 363 people waiting on hospital trolleys for the same day).<ref name=rte_trolleys>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0307/trolleys.html|title=Dispute over A&E trolley counts|publisher=RTÉ News|date=7 March 2006|access-date=22 June 2006|archive-date=12 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312192727/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0307/trolleys.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2006 the ] ranked the Irish health service as the second-least-"consumer-friendly" in the European Union and Switzerland, coming 25th out of 26 countries, ahead of only Lithuania.<ref name=european_rankings>{{cite news|url=http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=133&si=1641366&issue_id=14261|title=Our health service is the shame of Europe|work=Irish Independent|date=27 June 2006|access-date=27 June 2006|archive-date=7 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707000528/http://www.unison.ie/irish_independent/stories.php3?ca=133&si=1641366&issue_id=14261|url-status=live}}</ref> However, when the same survey was conducted a year later, the Irish health service showed significant improvement, coming 16th out of 29 countries, even scoring higher than Britain's ], which came 17th in the survey.


In July 2006, '']'' reported that Mary Harney's mother, Mrs Sarah Harney, jumped a queue of two emergency cases to receive hip surgery at The Adelaide and Meath Hospital in ]. The allegation was strongly denied by the minister.<ref name=mother>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0731/harneym.html|title=Tánaiste reacts angrily to mother story|work=RTÉ News|date=31 July 2006|access-date=11 August 2006|archive-date=12 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312192613/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0731/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Sixty percent of respondents to an ''Irish Times''/TNS mrbi poll in December 2006 said that the appointment of Harney to the position of Minister for Health had not led to any improvement in the health service. Fine Gael, the Labour Party and Harney's own Progressive Democrats supporters were those who expressed most satisfaction with people in Dublin also feeling most dissatisfaction regionally.<ref name=Poll>{{cite news|url=http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWIDQLSNSNKF|title=Majority unhappy with Harney's performance in Health|work=Breakingnews.ie|date=5 December 2006|access-date=5 December 2006|archive-date=27 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927200738/http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWIDQLSNSNKF|url-status=live}}</ref> Harney rejected criticisms from Fine Gael during the same month that there had been a 25% increase in people waiting on trolleys in regional hospitals during the past two years; she claimed Health Service Executive statistics showed otherwise.<ref name=Trolleys>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/1205/hospitals.html|title=Harney rejects claims over A&E|work=RTÉ News|date=5 December 2006|access-date=5 December 2006|archive-date=4 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070504094708/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/1205/hospitals.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2006, '']'' reported that Mary Harney's mother, Sarah Harney, jumped a queue of two emergency cases to receive hip surgery at The Adelaide and Meath Hospital in ]. The allegation was strongly denied by the minister.<ref name=mother>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0731/harneym.html|title=Tánaiste reacts angrily to mother story|publisher=RTÉ News|date=31 July 2006|access-date=11 August 2006|archive-date=12 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312192613/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0731/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Sixty percent of respondents to a '']''/TNS mrbi poll in December 2006 said that the appointment of Harney to the position of Minister for Health had not led to any improvement in the health service. Fine Gael, the Labour Party and Harney's own Progressive Democrats supporters were those who expressed most satisfaction, with people in Dublin also feeling most dissatisfaction regionally.<ref name=Poll>{{cite news|title=Majority unhappy with Harney's performance in Health|url=http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWIDQLSNSNKF|work=Breakingnews.ie|date=5 December 2006|access-date=5 December 2006|archive-date=27 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927200738/http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWIDQLSNSNKF|url-status=live}}</ref> Harney rejected criticisms from Fine Gael during the same month that there had been a 25% increase in people waiting on trolleys in regional hospitals during the past two years; she claimed Health Service Executive statistics showed otherwise.<ref name=Trolleys>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/1205/hospitals.html|title=Harney rejects claims over A&E|publisher=RTÉ News|date=5 December 2006|access-date=5 December 2006|archive-date=4 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070504094708/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/1205/hospitals.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


In July and August 2006, she issued three orders exempting two new community nursing units, to be built at St. Mary's Hospital in the ], from the usual legal requirement of planning permission, despite the Park being a designated and protected national monument. The ] said the decision was made because of what it called the department's "emergency response to the accident and emergency crisis at the time", although the nursing units, in use since 2008, are mainly for geriatric care.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/0518/1224246810397.html|title=Harney exempted Phoenix Park plan|work=The Irish Times|date=5 May 2009|access-date=11 August 2010|archive-date=21 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021200832/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/0518/1224246810397.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In July and August 2006, she issued three orders exempting two new community nursing units, to be built at St. Mary's Hospital in the ], from the usual legal requirement of planning permission, despite the Park being a designated and protected national monument. The ] said the decision was made because of what it called the department's "emergency response to the accident and emergency crisis at the time", although the nursing units, in use since 2008, are mainly for geriatric care.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/0518/1224246810397.html|title=Harney exempted Phoenix Park plan|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=5 May 2009|access-date=11 August 2010|archive-date=21 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021200832/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/0518/1224246810397.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


The same year, in her capacity as Minister for Health, Mary Harney introduced risk equalisation into the Irish healthcare market. This was hugely resisted by ]. Despite High Court proceedings, the controversial change was upheld. This forced BUPA out of the Irish healthcare market. (BUPA Ireland was afterwards bought by the Irish-owned ], averting any fear of redundancies.) In January 2007 a leaked memo said that the planned Cancer Care Strategy, due for completion in 2011, would not be delivered on time. Harney denied this and said that since the leaking of the memo there had been much progress, although she did not elaborate. The plan was to allow for nationwide radiotherapy services by 2011.<ref name=Radiotherapy>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0119/cancer.html|title=Harney defends cancer care strategy timescale|work=RTÉ News|date=19 January 2007|access-date=19 January 2007|archive-date=4 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070504204026/http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0119/cancer.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWSNEYKFIDOJ|title=Kenny: Govt's cancer-treatment delays a 'hoax'|work=Breakingnews.ie|date=19 January 2007|access-date=19 January 2007|archive-date=27 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927201148/http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWSNEYKFIDOJ|url-status=live}}</ref> The same year, in her capacity as Minister for Health, Mary Harney introduced risk equalisation into the Irish healthcare market. This was hugely resisted by ]. Despite High Court proceedings, the controversial change was upheld. This forced BUPA out of the Irish healthcare market. (BUPA Ireland was afterwards bought by the Irish-owned ], averting any fear of redundancies.) In January 2007 a leaked memo said that the planned Cancer Care Strategy, due for completion in 2011, would not be delivered on time. Harney denied this and said that since the leaking of the memo there had been much progress, although she did not elaborate. The plan was to allow for nationwide radiotherapy services by 2011.<ref name=Radiotherapy>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0119/cancer.html|title=Harney defends cancer care strategy timescale|publisher=RTÉ News|date=19 January 2007|access-date=19 January 2007|archive-date=4 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070504204026/http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0119/cancer.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWSNEYKFIDOJ|title=Kenny: Govt's cancer-treatment delays a 'hoax'|work=Breakingnews.ie|date=19 January 2007|access-date=19 January 2007|archive-date=27 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927201148/http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/?jp=CWSNEYKFIDOJ|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Resignation and return as party leader: 2006–2008=== ===Resignation and return as party leader: 2006–2008===
On 7 September 2006, Mary Harney announced that she was resigning as leader of the Progressive Democrats and that she would remain leader until a successor was chosen. She said she wanted to continue as Minister for Health<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0907/harneym.html|title=Harney steps down as leader of PDs|work=RTÉ News|date=7 September 2006|access-date=7 September 2006|archive-date=9 April 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080409182723/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0907/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref> but stated that it was a matter for her successor and the Taoiseach. She was succeeded by then Justice Minister ] after ] and backbencher ] nominated him. Parlon became party president and O'Donnell Deputy Leader in an agreement with McDowell after much speculation that the pair would also seek the leadership.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0908/pd.html|title=Search for PD leader as Harney steps down|work=RTÉ News|date=8 September 2006|access-date=8 September 2006|archive-date=12 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312192141/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0908/pd.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 7 September 2006, Mary Harney announced that she was resigning as leader of the Progressive Democrats and that she would remain leader until a successor was chosen. She said she wanted to continue as Minister for Health<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0907/harneym.html|title=Harney steps down as leader of PDs|publisher=RTÉ News|date=7 September 2006|access-date=7 September 2006|archive-date=9 April 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080409182723/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0907/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref> but stated that it was a matter for her successor and the Taoiseach. She was succeeded by then-Justice Minister ] after ] and backbencher ] nominated him. Parlon became party president and O'Donnell Deputy Leader in an agreement with McDowell after much speculation that the pair would also seek the leadership.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0908/pd.html|title=Search for PD leader as Harney steps down|publisher=RTÉ News|date=8 September 2006|access-date=8 September 2006|archive-date=12 March 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312192141/http://www.rte.ie/news/2006/0908/pd.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


Following the poor performance of the Progressive Democrats at the ], in which the party lost six of its eight seats including that of party leader ], Harney resumed her role as party leader. The Progressive Democrats' rules at the time stipulated that the leader of the party must be a TD, and Harney was one of only two remaining TDs; she resumed the leadership in a caretaker capacity. Following a rule change that broadened the eligibility, she was succeeded by Senator ] as party leader on 17 April 2008.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2008/0417/breaking3.htm|title=Cannon elected leader of the Progressive Democrats|work=Irish Times|date=17 April 2008|access-date=17 April 2008|archive-date=22 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210922201832/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/new-pd-leader-cannon-pledges-to-rebuild-party-1.821369|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the poor performance of the Progressive Democrats at the ], in which the party lost six of its eight seats including that of party leader ], Harney resumed her role as party leader. The Progressive Democrats' rules at the time stipulated that the leader of the party must be a TD, and Harney was one of only two remaining TDs; she resumed the leadership in a caretaker capacity. Following a rule change that broadened the eligibility, she was succeeded by Senator ] as party leader on 17 April 2008.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2008/0417/breaking3.htm|title=Cannon elected leader of the Progressive Democrats|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=17 April 2008|access-date=17 April 2008|archive-date=22 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210922201832/https://www.irishtimes.com/news/new-pd-leader-cannon-pledges-to-rebuild-party-1.821369|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Independent TD: 2008–2011=== ===Independent TD: 2008–2011===
When the Progressive Democrats voted to disband in November 2008, Harney said she would remain as an independent TD once the party was wound up.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1108/pd.html|title=PDs vote to bring party to an end|work=RTÉ News|date=8 November 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081211110548/http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1108/pd.html|archive-date=11 December 2008}}</ref> When the Progressive Democrats voted to disband in November 2008, Harney said she would remain as an independent TD once the party was wound up.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1108/pd.html|title=PDs vote to bring party to an end|publisher=RTÉ News|date=8 November 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081211110548/http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1108/pd.html|archive-date=11 December 2008}}</ref>


===Resignation as minister and retirement from Dáil: 2011=== ===Resignation as minister and retirement from Dáil: 2011===
On 15 January 2011, Harney tendered her resignation as Minister for Health and Children to Taoiseach ].<ref name=Retire>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2011/0119/harneym.html|title=Mary Harney to retire from politics|work=]|date=19 January 2011|access-date=19 January 2011|archive-date=21 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121023930/http://www.rte.ie/news/2011/0119/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref> She also stated that she would not be contesting the ].<ref name=Retire/> On 15 January 2011, Harney tendered her resignation as Minister for Health and Children to Taoiseach ].<ref name=Retire>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2011/0119/harneym.html|title=Mary Harney to retire from politics|publisher=RTÉ News|date=19 January 2011|access-date=19 January 2011|archive-date=21 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121023930/http://www.rte.ie/news/2011/0119/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref> She also stated that she would not be contesting the ].<ref name=Retire/>


==Criticisms== ==Criticisms==
Alongside her predecessor at the Department of Health, ], and officials at two prominent Dublin fertility clinics, she received a package which included a threatening letter on 29 February 2008.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ministers Micheál Martin and Mary Harney sent bullets in the post|url=http://m.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/ministers-michel-martin-and-mary-harney-sent-bullets-in-the-post-26429322.html|work=Independent|date=10 March 2008 |access-date=30 November 2017|archive-date=28 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210928000004/https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/ministers-micheal-martin-and-mary-harney-sent-bullets-in-the-post-26429322.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


Councillor Louise Minihan, a member of ], threw red paint over Harney on 1 November 2010 as Harney ] on a new health centre beside the Cherry Orchard Hospital in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thejournal.ie/harney-attacked-with-red-paint-in-ballyfermot-gallery-2010-11/ |title=Harney attacked with red paint in Ballyfermot (gallery) |work=TheJournal.ie |date=1 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101102235314/http://www.thejournal.ie/harney-attacked-with-red-paint-in-ballyfermot-gallery-2010-11/ |archive-date=2 November 2010 }}</ref> Minihan was detained but later released.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/1102/1224282487710.html|title=Councillor who threw paint at Harney released|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=2 November 2010|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=5 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305022907/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/1102/1224282487710.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
Alongside her predecessor at the Department of Health, ], and officials at two prominent Dublin fertility clinics, she received a package which included a threatening letter on 29 February 2008.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ministers Micheál Martin and Mary Harney sent bullets in the post|url=http://m.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/ministers-michel-martin-and-mary-harney-sent-bullets-in-the-post-26429322.html|work=Independent|access-date=30 November 2017|archive-date=28 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210928000004/https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/ministers-micheal-martin-and-mary-harney-sent-bullets-in-the-post-26429322.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


Councillor Louise Minihan, a member of ], famously threw red paint over Harney on 1 November 2010 as Harney ] on a new health centre beside the Cherry Orchard Hospital in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thejournal.ie/harney-attacked-with-red-paint-in-ballyfermot-gallery-2010-11/ |title=Harney attacked with red paint in Ballyfermot (gallery) |work=TheJournal.ie |date=1 November 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101102235314/http://www.thejournal.ie/harney-attacked-with-red-paint-in-ballyfermot-gallery-2010-11/ |archive-date=2 November 2010 }}</ref> Minihan was detained but later released.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/1102/1224282487710.html|title=Councillor who threw paint at Harney released|work=The Irish Times|date=2 November 2010|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=5 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305022907/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/1102/1224282487710.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 November 2010, Harney's ministerial car was pelted with eggs and cheese as she arrived in ], with protesters referring to the "ongoing downgrading of the hospital".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1112/harneym.html|title=Eggs and cheese thrown at Mary Harney's car|publisher=RTÉ News|date=12 November 2010|access-date=13 November 2010|archive-date=13 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101113220254/http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1112/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

A short while later, on 12 November 2010, Harney's "ongoing downgrading of the hospital" led to her ministerial car being pelted with eggs and cheese as she arrived in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1112/harneym.html|title=Eggs and cheese thrown at Mary Harney's car|work=RTÉ News|date=12 November 2010|access-date=13 November 2010|archive-date=13 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101113220254/http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1112/harneym.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


===FÁS expenses scandal=== ===FÁS expenses scandal===
Line 129: Line 127:
In a ] interview on 27 November 2008, Fianna Fáil TD ] described Harney's involvement in the scandal as "a load of hoo-hah". In a ] interview on 27 November 2008, Fianna Fáil TD ] described Harney's involvement in the scandal as "a load of hoo-hah".


On 28 November 2008 Harney defended her use of expenses while on a FÁS trip to the US, saying that she was "not on holiday", she had not used public taxes for her own ], that the use of the government jet for the trip was made by the Taoiseach, and she had followed advice in claiming her expenses. She acknowledged meeting a relative for an hour while in the United States. The embattled ] leader ] told his party conference that Harney should resign because of her performance as Minister for Health.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1128/fas.html|title=Harney defends FÁS trip expenses|work=RTÉ News|date=28 November 2008|access-date=28 November 2008|archive-date=3 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203070201/http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1128/fas.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 28 November 2008, Harney defended her use of expenses while on a FÁS trip to the US, saying that she was "not on holiday", she had not used public taxes for her own ], that the use of the government jet for the trip was made by the Taoiseach, and she had followed advice in claiming her expenses. She acknowledged meeting a relative for an hour while in the United States. ] leader ] told his party conference that Harney should resign because of her performance as Minister for Health.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1128/fas.html|title=Harney defends FÁS trip expenses|publisher=RTÉ News|date=28 November 2008|access-date=28 November 2008|archive-date=3 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203070201/http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/1128/fas.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Libel cases=== ===Libel cases===
In 2002, Harney settled a libel case with '']'' magazine for around €25,000 and in 2004 she settled a case against the '']'' for €70,000. In May 2011, she received a €450,000 payout from ] in compensation for a slur made about her on live air by journalist ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0505/1224296146842.html|title=Newstalk to pay Harney more than €400,000|work=The Irish Times|date=5 May 2011|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023194756/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0505/1224296146842.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2002, Harney settled a libel case with '']'' magazine for around €25,000, and in 2004 she settled a case against the '']'' for €70,000. In May 2011, she received a €450,000 in compensation from ] for a slur made about her on live air by journalist ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0505/1224296146842.html|title=Newstalk to pay Harney more than €400,000|newspaper=The Irish Times|date=5 May 2011|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=23 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023194756/http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0505/1224296146842.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Post-politics== ==Post-politics==

===Board memberships=== ===Board memberships===
In 2012, Harney joined the board of a new healthcare company, Cara. In her first interview since leaving office, Harney said she joined the board of two Irish 'high-potential' start-ups, Cara Health and Ward Biotech. She was also employed in speaking engagements, saying: "I spoke at a recent surgeons' conference in New York on my experience as a health minister and in Berlin on the Irish pharma sector." In April 2012 Harney joined the board of car fleet insurer Euro Insurances, an Irish subsidiary of Dutch leasing giant Leaseplan. Indian pharma businessman ], appointed Harney to the board of ], a Bangalore-based company employing 7,000 and expanding in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/business/irish/harney-joins-board-of-new-health-firm-3175373.html|title=Harney joins board of new health firm|work=Irish Independent|date=22 July 2012|access-date=23 July 2012|archive-date=24 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120724181708/http://www.independent.ie/business/irish/harney-joins-board-of-new-health-firm-3175373.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2012, Harney joined the board of a new healthcare company, Cara. In her first interview since leaving office, Harney said she joined the boards of two Irish 'high-potential' start-ups, Cara Health and Ward Biotech. She was also employed in speaking engagements, saying: "I spoke at a recent surgeons' conference in New York on my experience as a health minister and in Berlin on the Irish pharma sector." In April 2012 Harney joined the board of car fleet insurer Euro Insurances, an Irish subsidiary of Dutch leasing giant Leaseplan. Indian pharma businessman ], appointed Harney to the board of ], a Bangalore-based company employing 7,000 and expanding in ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/business/irish/harney-joins-board-of-new-health-firm-3175373.html|title=Harney joins board of new health firm|work=Irish Independent|date=22 July 2012|access-date=23 July 2012|archive-date=24 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120724181708/http://www.independent.ie/business/irish/harney-joins-board-of-new-health-firm-3175373.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


===2016 address=== ===2016 address===
On 17 April 2016, Harney intervened in ], claiming the deadlock would damage "Ireland's reputation" in remarks made during her closing address at the three-day Women in Media conference in ]. In the same address Harney, who attended with husband Brian Geogheghan, claimed that "when she left public life she made a conscious decision to leave politics behind her".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/election-2016/mary-harney-warns-government-formation-delay-damaging-irelands-international-reputation-34634433.html|title=Mary Harney warns government formation delay damaging Ireland's international reputation|website=independent|access-date=20 May 2021|archive-date=20 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210520025449/https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/election-2016/mary-harney-warns-government-formation-delay-damaging-irelands-international-reputation-34634433.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 17 April 2016, Harney intervened in ], claiming the deadlock would damage "Ireland's reputation" in remarks made during her closing address at the three-day Women in Media conference in ]. In the same address Harney, who attended with husband Brian Geogheghan, claimed that "when she left public life she made a conscious decision to leave politics behind her".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/election-2016/mary-harney-warns-government-formation-delay-damaging-irelands-international-reputation-34634433.html|title=Mary Harney warns government formation delay damaging Ireland's international reputation|website=independent|date=17 April 2016 |access-date=20 May 2021|archive-date=20 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210520025449/https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/election-2016/mary-harney-warns-government-formation-delay-damaging-irelands-international-reputation-34634433.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Recognition== ==Recognition==
In 2019, ] awarded Harney with an honorary doctorate.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/honorary-degrees-2019/|title=Honorary Degrees 2019|date=2019-12-06|website=Trinity News and Events|language=en-GB|access-date=2020-01-06|archive-date=23 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123064622/https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/honorary-degrees-2019/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2019, ] awarded Harney an honorary doctorate.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/honorary-degrees-2019/|title=Honorary Degrees 2019|date=6 December 2019|website=Trinity News and Events|language=en-GB|access-date=6 December 2020|archive-date=23 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123064622/https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/honorary-degrees-2019/|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Personal life== ==Personal life==
In November 2001 Harney married Brian Geoghegan, a businessman, in a low-key afternoon ceremony in Dublin on a day in which she attended to a number of significant political meetings.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/unsorted/features/when-mary-met-brian-322860.html|title=When Mary met Brian|work=Irish Independent|date=8 December 2001|access-date=20 January 2011|archive-date=26 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026062944/http://www.independent.ie/unsorted/features/when-mary-met-brian-322860.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2001 Harney married Brian Geoghegan, a businessman, in a low-key afternoon ceremony in Dublin, on a day in which she attended to a number of significant political meetings.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/unsorted/features/when-mary-met-brian-322860.html|title=When Mary met Brian|work=Irish Independent|date=8 December 2001|access-date=20 January 2011|archive-date=26 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026062944/http://www.independent.ie/unsorted/features/when-mary-met-brian-322860.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


==References== ==References==
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==External links== ==External links==
{{commons category|Mary Harney}} {{Commons category|Mary Harney}}
*{{C-SPAN|33181}} *{{C-SPAN|33181}}
*{{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703125512/http://www.progressivedemocrats.ie/our_people/member/1/ |date=3 July 2007 |title=Mary Harney's profile on the Progressive Democrat party website }} *{{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703125512/http://www.progressivedemocrats.ie/our_people/member/1/ |date=3 July 2007 |title=Mary Harney's profile on the Progressive Democrat party website }}


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Latest revision as of 04:37, 8 December 2024

Irish politician (born 1953)

Mary Harney
Harney in 2007
Minister for Health and Children
In office
29 September 2004 – 19 January 2011
Taoiseach
Preceded byMicheál Martin
Succeeded byMary Coughlan
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment
In office
26 June 1997 – 13 September 2004
TaoiseachBertie Ahern
Preceded byRichard Bruton
Succeeded byMicheál Martin
Tánaiste
In office
26 June 1997 – 13 September 2006
TaoiseachBertie Ahern
Preceded byDick Spring
Succeeded byMichael McDowell
Leader of the Progressive Democrats
In office
25 May 2007 – 17 April 2008
Preceded byMichael McDowell
Succeeded byCiarán Cannon
In office
26 October 1993 – 11 September 2006
Preceded byDesmond O'Malley
Succeeded byMichael McDowell
Minister of State
1989–1992Environment
Teachta Dála
In office
May 2002 – February 2011
ConstituencyDublin Mid-West
In office
June 1981 – May 2002
ConstituencyDublin South-West
Senator
In office
27 October 1977 – 11 June 1981
ConstituencyNominated by the Taoiseach
Personal details
Born (1953-03-11) 11 March 1953 (age 71)
Ballinasloe, County Galway, Ireland
Political partyIndependent (since 2009)
Other political
affiliations
Spouse Brian Geoghegan ​(m. 2001)
Alma materTrinity College Dublin

Mary Harney (born 11 March 1953) is an Irish former politician and the former Chancellor of the University of Limerick.

She was leader of the Progressive Democrats party between 1993 and 2006 and again from 2007 to 2008, resuming the role after her successor, Michael McDowell, lost his seat at the 2007 general election. She is the second longest-ever-serving female member of Dáil Éireann, serving as a Teachta Dála (TD) successively for the Dublin South-West and Dublin Mid-West constituencies from 1981 to 2011.

She was Ireland's first female Tánaiste from 1997 to 2006, and the first woman to lead a party in Dáil Éireann.

Early life and education

Harney was born in Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, County Galway, in 1953. Her parents, who lived in nearby Ahascragh, were both farmers, but shortly after her birth her family moved to Newcastle, County Dublin. She was educated at the Convent of Mercy, Inchicore, and Presentation Convent, Clondalkin, before studying at Trinity College Dublin.

During her time in Trinity, she became the first female auditor (chair) of the College Historical Society. In 1976, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economic and Social Studies, and for a brief time was a secondary school teacher at Castleknock College in Dublin.

Political career: 1977–2011

Fianna Fáil: 1977–1985

Harney came to the attention of Fianna Fáil leader Jack Lynch, and stood unsuccessfully as a Fianna Fáil candidate in the 1977 general election. She was then appointed to Seanad Éireann by Lynch who had become Taoiseach. She was the youngest ever member of the Seanad when appointed, aged 24.

In 1979, Harney had her first electoral success when she was elected to Dublin County Council. Two years later she was elected to the Dáil at the 1981 general election for Dublin South-West. She retained her seat at every election until her retirement in 2011, moving to the new Dublin Mid-West constituency at the 2002 general election when it was created from part of Dublin South-West.

After the killers of gay man Declan Flynn received suspended sentences, Harney challenged then Minister for Justice Michael Noonan to seek the resignation of the judge.

As a member of the so-called Gang of 22, she was expelled from the party after voting in favour of the Anglo-Irish Agreement in 1985.

Foundation of Progressive Democrats: 1985–1997

Harney went on to become a founder member of the Progressive Democrats with Desmond O'Malley and Bobby Molloy in December 1985.

Following the 1989 general election the Progressive Democrats entered into a coalition government with Fianna Fáil, led at the time by Charles Haughey. Harney was appointed Minister of State with responsibility for Environmental Protection. As Minister of State she championed legislation to ban the sale of bituminous coal in Dublin, thereby eliminating smog from the city. She served in this position until the party withdrew from government in late 1992. In February 1993, Harney was appointed deputy leader of the Progressive Democrats, and succeeded O'Malley as party leader in October of that year, making her the first female leader of an Irish political party in Dáil Eireann.

Return to coalition with Fianna Fáil: 1997–2004

Following the 1997 general election and lengthy negotiations, the Progressive Democrats entered into coalition government with Fianna Fáil. Harney was appointed the first female Tánaiste and first female Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Harney used her powers to initiate thirteen investigations into companies which tribunals had suggested might have breached company law. After the 2002 general election Harney led the Progressive Democrats, who had doubled their seats from four to eight, back into coalition with Fianna Fáil, the first time a government had been re-elected since 1969. She was re-appointed Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. She inaugurated the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) in May 2004, to reduce high litigation costs in personal injuries cases and to compensate claimants quickly and cheaply. This was a major reform of the insurance market long opposed by the legal profession.

Harney was Ireland's representative to the European Council of Ministers for the Software Patents Directive. Because the council's first reading fell during the Irish Presidency of the European Council, she was chair of the meeting that discarded the amendments by the European Parliament which confirmed the exclusion of software innovations from what constitutes patentable subject matter.

In December 2001, Harney controversially used an Air Corps aircraft to travel to County Leitrim to open a friend's off-licence in Manorhamilton; the trip cost €1,500. Harney later apologised for having abused her position in using the plane for non-government business, and admitted that using the plane was wrong. The aircraft was to be used 90% of the time exclusively for maritime surveillance.

Minister for Health and Children: 2004–2011

In a government reshuffle on 29 September 2004, Harney was appointed Minister for Health and Children.

In May 2006, the Irish Nurses Organisation unanimously passed a motion of no confidence in Mary Harney, accusing her of being negative and antagonistic towards nurses. Her policy of transferring private beds in public hospitals to privately operated hospitals also attracted criticism.

In March 2006, 16 months after she took office as health minister, the INO claimed that a record number of 455 people were waiting on hospital trolleys on one day (although the Health Service Executive gave a figure of 363 people waiting on hospital trolleys for the same day). In June 2006 the Health Consumer Powerhouse ranked the Irish health service as the second-least-"consumer-friendly" in the European Union and Switzerland, coming 25th out of 26 countries, ahead of only Lithuania. However, when the same survey was conducted a year later, the Irish health service showed significant improvement, coming 16th out of 29 countries, even scoring higher than Britain's NHS, which came 17th in the survey.

In July 2006, Ireland on Sunday reported that Mary Harney's mother, Sarah Harney, jumped a queue of two emergency cases to receive hip surgery at The Adelaide and Meath Hospital in Tallaght. The allegation was strongly denied by the minister. Sixty percent of respondents to a The Irish Times/TNS mrbi poll in December 2006 said that the appointment of Harney to the position of Minister for Health had not led to any improvement in the health service. Fine Gael, the Labour Party and Harney's own Progressive Democrats supporters were those who expressed most satisfaction, with people in Dublin also feeling most dissatisfaction regionally. Harney rejected criticisms from Fine Gael during the same month that there had been a 25% increase in people waiting on trolleys in regional hospitals during the past two years; she claimed Health Service Executive statistics showed otherwise.

In July and August 2006, she issued three orders exempting two new community nursing units, to be built at St. Mary's Hospital in the Phoenix Park, from the usual legal requirement of planning permission, despite the Park being a designated and protected national monument. The Department of Health said the decision was made because of what it called the department's "emergency response to the accident and emergency crisis at the time", although the nursing units, in use since 2008, are mainly for geriatric care.

The same year, in her capacity as Minister for Health, Mary Harney introduced risk equalisation into the Irish healthcare market. This was hugely resisted by BUPA. Despite High Court proceedings, the controversial change was upheld. This forced BUPA out of the Irish healthcare market. (BUPA Ireland was afterwards bought by the Irish-owned Quinn Group, averting any fear of redundancies.) In January 2007 a leaked memo said that the planned Cancer Care Strategy, due for completion in 2011, would not be delivered on time. Harney denied this and said that since the leaking of the memo there had been much progress, although she did not elaborate. The plan was to allow for nationwide radiotherapy services by 2011.

Resignation and return as party leader: 2006–2008

On 7 September 2006, Mary Harney announced that she was resigning as leader of the Progressive Democrats and that she would remain leader until a successor was chosen. She said she wanted to continue as Minister for Health but stated that it was a matter for her successor and the Taoiseach. She was succeeded by then-Justice Minister Michael McDowell after Tom Parlon and backbencher Liz O'Donnell nominated him. Parlon became party president and O'Donnell Deputy Leader in an agreement with McDowell after much speculation that the pair would also seek the leadership.

Following the poor performance of the Progressive Democrats at the 2007 general election, in which the party lost six of its eight seats including that of party leader Michael McDowell, Harney resumed her role as party leader. The Progressive Democrats' rules at the time stipulated that the leader of the party must be a TD, and Harney was one of only two remaining TDs; she resumed the leadership in a caretaker capacity. Following a rule change that broadened the eligibility, she was succeeded by Senator Ciarán Cannon as party leader on 17 April 2008.

Independent TD: 2008–2011

When the Progressive Democrats voted to disband in November 2008, Harney said she would remain as an independent TD once the party was wound up.

Resignation as minister and retirement from Dáil: 2011

On 15 January 2011, Harney tendered her resignation as Minister for Health and Children to Taoiseach Brian Cowen. She also stated that she would not be contesting the 2011 general election.

Criticisms

Alongside her predecessor at the Department of Health, Micheál Martin, and officials at two prominent Dublin fertility clinics, she received a package which included a threatening letter on 29 February 2008.

Councillor Louise Minihan, a member of Dublin City Council, threw red paint over Harney on 1 November 2010 as Harney turned the sod on a new health centre beside the Cherry Orchard Hospital in Ballyfermot. Minihan was detained but later released.

On 12 November 2010, Harney's ministerial car was pelted with eggs and cheese as she arrived in Nenagh, with protesters referring to the "ongoing downgrading of the hospital".

FÁS expenses scandal

Main article: FÁS expenses scandal

In 2004 she travelled to Florida with senior FÁS executives, department officials, and her husband, Brian Geoghegan, and was receiving more than €100-a-day subsistence money from the taxpayer when FÁS picked up her hairdressing bill in a Florida hotel. Like all government ministers travelling abroad, she was entitled to a daily allowance for "incidental expenses".

In a RTÉ Radio 1 interview on 27 November 2008, Fianna Fáil TD Mary O'Rourke described Harney's involvement in the scandal as "a load of hoo-hah".

On 28 November 2008, Harney defended her use of expenses while on a FÁS trip to the US, saying that she was "not on holiday", she had not used public taxes for her own personal grooming, that the use of the government jet for the trip was made by the Taoiseach, and she had followed advice in claiming her expenses. She acknowledged meeting a relative for an hour while in the United States. Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore told his party conference that Harney should resign because of her performance as Minister for Health.

Libel cases

In 2002, Harney settled a libel case with Magill magazine for around €25,000, and in 2004 she settled a case against the Sunday Independent for €70,000. In May 2011, she received a €450,000 in compensation from Newstalk radio for a slur made about her on live air by journalist Nell McCafferty.

Post-politics

Board memberships

In 2012, Harney joined the board of a new healthcare company, Cara. In her first interview since leaving office, Harney said she joined the boards of two Irish 'high-potential' start-ups, Cara Health and Ward Biotech. She was also employed in speaking engagements, saying: "I spoke at a recent surgeons' conference in New York on my experience as a health minister and in Berlin on the Irish pharma sector." In April 2012 Harney joined the board of car fleet insurer Euro Insurances, an Irish subsidiary of Dutch leasing giant Leaseplan. Indian pharma businessman Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, appointed Harney to the board of Biocon, a Bangalore-based company employing 7,000 and expanding in Malaysia.

2016 address

On 17 April 2016, Harney intervened in government formation talks, claiming the deadlock would damage "Ireland's reputation" in remarks made during her closing address at the three-day Women in Media conference in Ballybunion. In the same address Harney, who attended with husband Brian Geogheghan, claimed that "when she left public life she made a conscious decision to leave politics behind her".

Recognition

In 2019, Trinity College Dublin awarded Harney an honorary doctorate.

Personal life

In November 2001 Harney married Brian Geoghegan, a businessman, in a low-key afternoon ceremony in Dublin, on a day in which she attended to a number of significant political meetings.

References

  1. O'Brien, Carl (9 January 2018). "Mary Harney appointed as chancellor of University of Limerick". The Irish Times. Archived from the original on 9 November 2020. Retrieved 1 November 2019.
  2. "Harney was impressive in her day but her legacy leaves a lot to be desired". Irish Examiner. 14 January 2011. Archived from the original on 18 November 2011. Retrieved 22 January 2011.
  3. "Harney first woman to lead Irish political party". The Irish Times. 7 September 2006. Archived from the original on 27 September 2021. Retrieved 29 March 2020.
  4. "Harney Leader of the PDs". RTÉ.ie. Archived from the original on 29 March 2020. Retrieved 29 March 2020.
  5. "2,000 protest against cuts at Ballinasloe hospital". The Irish Times. 18 August 2010. Archived from the original on 23 October 2012. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
  6. "Former Tánaiste Mary Harney announced as UL Chancellor". University of Limerick. 9 January 2018. Archived from the original on 18 June 2021. Retrieved 27 September 2021.
  7. "Where the sharpest pit their wits". The Irish Times. 19 February 2010. Archived from the original on 20 October 2012. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
  8. "Mary Harney". Oireachtas Members Database. Archived from the original on 22 September 2020. Retrieved 13 April 2009.
  9. "Minister for Health Mary Harney tenders resignation". The Irish Times. 19 January 2011. Archived from the original on 23 October 2012. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
  10. "Mary Harney". ElectionsIreland.org. Archived from the original on 15 April 2009. Retrieved 13 April 2009.
  11. Carswell, Simon. "Declan Flynn 'queer-bashing' murder 'still very raw' 36 years on". The Irish Times. Archived from the original on 24 April 2021. Retrieved 24 April 2021.
  12. Minihan, Mary; Collins, Stephen (20 January 2011). "Harney calls time on a life in politics with a vow to stay silent during election campaign". The Irish Times. Archived from the original on 23 October 2012. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
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  14. ^ McNamara,Maedhbh. A woman's place is in the Cabinet: women ministers in Irish governments 1919-2019. Drogheda, Sea Dog Books,2020.ISBN 978-1-913275-06-8
  15. At a time when Ireland held the rotating Presidency of the European Union
  16. "Tánaiste stands over use of Air Corps aircraft". RTÉ News. 17 January 2002. Archived from the original on 24 August 2004. Retrieved 20 August 2007.
  17. "Harney's humble pie over plane 'outrage'". Irish Independent. 19 January 2002. Archived from the original on 3 May 2005. Retrieved 22 June 2006.
  18. "INO passes vote of no confidence in Harney". RTÉ News. 5 May 2006. Archived from the original on 14 February 2007. Retrieved 22 June 2006.
  19. Tom O'Connor (28 August 2005). "The regressive nature of Mary Harney's proposals leaves them open to abuse" (PDF). Sunday Business Post. Archived (PDF) from the original on 29 September 2007. Retrieved 22 June 2006.
  20. "Dispute over A&E trolley counts". RTÉ News. 7 March 2006. Archived from the original on 12 March 2007. Retrieved 22 June 2006.
  21. "Our health service is the shame of Europe". Irish Independent. 27 June 2006. Archived from the original on 7 July 2015. Retrieved 27 June 2006.
  22. "Tánaiste reacts angrily to mother story". RTÉ News. 31 July 2006. Archived from the original on 12 March 2007. Retrieved 11 August 2006.
  23. "Majority unhappy with Harney's performance in Health". Breakingnews.ie. 5 December 2006. Archived from the original on 27 September 2007. Retrieved 5 December 2006.
  24. "Harney rejects claims over A&E". RTÉ News. 5 December 2006. Archived from the original on 4 May 2007. Retrieved 5 December 2006.
  25. "Harney exempted Phoenix Park plan". The Irish Times. 5 May 2009. Archived from the original on 21 October 2012. Retrieved 11 August 2010.
  26. "Harney defends cancer care strategy timescale". RTÉ News. 19 January 2007. Archived from the original on 4 May 2007. Retrieved 19 January 2007.
  27. "Kenny: Govt's cancer-treatment delays a 'hoax'". Breakingnews.ie. 19 January 2007. Archived from the original on 27 September 2007. Retrieved 19 January 2007.
  28. "Harney steps down as leader of PDs". RTÉ News. 7 September 2006. Archived from the original on 9 April 2008. Retrieved 7 September 2006.
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  31. "PDs vote to bring party to an end". RTÉ News. 8 November 2008. Archived from the original on 11 December 2008.
  32. ^ "Mary Harney to retire from politics". RTÉ News. 19 January 2011. Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Retrieved 19 January 2011.
  33. "Ministers Micheál Martin and Mary Harney sent bullets in the post". Independent. 10 March 2008. Archived from the original on 28 September 2021. Retrieved 30 November 2017.
  34. "Harney attacked with red paint in Ballyfermot (gallery)". TheJournal.ie. 1 November 2010. Archived from the original on 2 November 2010.
  35. "Councillor who threw paint at Harney released". The Irish Times. 2 November 2010. Archived from the original on 5 March 2013. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
  36. "Eggs and cheese thrown at Mary Harney's car". RTÉ News. 12 November 2010. Archived from the original on 13 November 2010. Retrieved 13 November 2010.
  37. "Revealed: sky-high cost of FAS Florida trip". Irish Independent. 28 November 2008. Archived from the original on 3 December 2008. Retrieved 28 November 2008.
  38. "Harney defends FÁS trip expenses". RTÉ News. 28 November 2008. Archived from the original on 3 December 2008. Retrieved 28 November 2008.
  39. "Newstalk to pay Harney more than €400,000". The Irish Times. 5 May 2011. Archived from the original on 23 October 2012. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
  40. "Harney joins board of new health firm". Irish Independent. 22 July 2012. Archived from the original on 24 July 2012. Retrieved 23 July 2012.
  41. "Mary Harney warns government formation delay damaging Ireland's international reputation". independent. 17 April 2016. Archived from the original on 20 May 2021. Retrieved 20 May 2021.
  42. "Honorary Degrees 2019". Trinity News and Events. 6 December 2019. Archived from the original on 23 November 2020. Retrieved 6 December 2020.
  43. "When Mary met Brian". Irish Independent. 8 December 2001. Archived from the original on 26 October 2012. Retrieved 20 January 2011.

External links

Political offices
New office Minister of State at the Department of the Environment
1989–1992
Succeeded byJohn Browne
Preceded byRichard Bruton Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment
1997–2004
Succeeded byMicheál Martin
Preceded byDick Spring Tánaiste
1997–2006
Succeeded byMichael McDowell
Preceded byMicheál Martin Minister for Health and Children
2004–2011
Succeeded byMary Coughlan
Party political offices
Preceded byDesmond O'Malley Leader of the Progressive Democrats
1993–2006
Succeeded byMichael McDowell
Preceded byMichael McDowell Leader of the Progressive Democrats
2007–2008
Succeeded byCiarán Cannon
Mary Harney navigational boxes
Teachtaí Dála (TDs) for the Dublin South-West constituency
This table is transcluded from Dublin South-West (Dáil constituency). (edit | history)
Dáil Election Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
13th 1948 Seán MacBride
(CnaP)
Peadar Doyle
(FG)
Bernard Butler
(FF)
Michael O'Higgins
(FG)
Robert Briscoe
(FF)
14th 1951 Michael ffrench-O'Carroll
(Ind)
15th 1954 Michael O'Higgins
(FG)
1956 by-election Noel Lemass
(FF)
16th 1957 James Carroll
(Ind)
1959 by-election Richie Ryan
(FG)
17th 1961 James O'Keeffe
(FG)
18th 1965 John O'Connell
(Lab)
Joseph Dowling
(FF)
Ben Briscoe
(FF)
19th 1969 Seán Dunne
(Lab)
4 seats
1969–1977
1970 by-election Seán Sherwin
(FF)
20th 1973 Declan Costello
(FG)
1976 by-election Brendan Halligan
(Lab)
21st 1977 Constituency abolished. See Dublin Ballyfermot


Note that the boundaries of Dublin South-West from 1981 onwards share no common territory with the pre-1977 boundaries. See §History and boundaries

Dáil Election Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
22nd 1981 Seán Walsh
(FF)
Larry McMahon
(FG)
Mary Harney
(FF)
Mervyn Taylor
(Lab)
4 seats
1981–1992
23rd 1982 (Feb)
24th 1982 (Nov) Michael O'Leary
(FG)
25th 1987 Chris Flood
(FF)
Mary Harney
(PDs)
26th 1989 Pat Rabbitte
(WP)
27th 1992 Pat Rabbitte
(DL)
Éamonn Walsh
(Lab)
28th 1997 Conor Lenihan
(FF)
Brian Hayes
(FG)
29th 2002 Pat Rabbitte
(Lab)
Charlie O'Connor
(FF)
Seán Crowe
(SF)
4 seats
2002–2016
30th 2007 Brian Hayes
(FG)
31st 2011 Eamonn Maloney
(Lab)
Seán Crowe
(SF)
2014 by-election Paul Murphy
(AAA)
32nd 2016 Colm Brophy
(FG)
John Lahart
(FF)
Paul Murphy
(AAA–PBP)
Katherine Zappone
(Ind)
33rd 2020 Paul Murphy
(S–PBP)
Francis Noel Duffy
(GP)
34th 2024 Paul Murphy
(PBP–S)
Ciarán Ahern
(Lab)
Teachtaí Dála (TDs) for the Dublin Mid-West constituency
This table is transcluded from Dublin Mid-West (Dáil constituency). (edit | history)
Dáil Election Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
Deputy
(Party)
29th 2002 Paul Gogarty
(GP)
3 seats
2002–2007
Mary Harney
(PDs)
John Curran
(FF)
4 seats
2002–2024
30th 2007 Joanna Tuffy
(Lab)
31st 2011 Robert Dowds
(Lab)
Frances Fitzgerald
(FG)
Derek Keating
(FG)
32nd 2016 Gino Kenny
(AAA–PBP)
Eoin Ó Broin
(SF)
John Curran
(FF)
2019 by-election Mark Ward
(SF)
33rd 2020 Gino Kenny
(S–PBP)
Emer Higgins
(FG)
34th 2024 Paul Gogarty
(Ind)
Shane Moynihan
(FF)
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