TJ Maher,
Prominent figure in 1960s farm protests
The former MEP and President of the IFA, TJ Maher, has died at the age of 79.
A powerful public speaker, the Tipperary man was one of the most prominent farm leaders of the last century. He was actively involved in the Farmers' Rights Campaign of the 1960s and succeeded the legendary Rickard Deasy as President of the National Farmers Association in 1967.
In 1972, he became President of the newly named IFA and remained in that position for four years. He also became involved in the co-operative movement.
Mr Maher won a notable victory in the Munster European elections of 1979, remaining an independent MEP until 1994.
Joe Walsh, the Minister for Agriculture, has said that Mr Maher had made an outstanding contribution to Irish farming.
Mr Walsh said: "In a distinguished career, his commitment to and robust defence of the interests of farmers was exemplary. TJ made a major contribution to the development of the modern sophisticated agri-food sector which we have today. He was a particularly good communicator, helping to bridge the rural urban divide."
John Dillon, IFA leader, said Mr Maher had been an early advocate and powerful voice in favour of Ireland joining the European Community. Mr Dillon said that Mr Maher had campaigned successfully in Brussels to ensure that Ireland's farmers both modernised and developed under EEC membership.
Mary Harney said she was very saddened to hear of the death of Mr Maher. "He was a very independent minded and progressive politician who demonstrated a life-long commitment to agriculture and rural development", said the Tánaiste.
