Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh is the first President of Ireland to resign from office.
While President, Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh referred the Emergency Powers Bill to the Supreme Court to test its constitutionality. On the day he signed the bill into law, an IRA bomb in Mountmellick, County Laois killed Garda Michael Clerkin.
Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh's perceived procrastination was seen by some government members to have contributed to the death of this Garda. Defence Minister Patrick Donegan is believed to have called the president,
A thundering disgrace.
Following the minister's remarks, President Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh tendered his resignation from office. Speaking to RTÉ News he would not be drawn on the reasons for his resignation other than he had outlined in writing. He is clear however that his decision was considered.
My job in life has been considering things I hope, gravely and fully.
He does not wish to comment on Minister Patrick Donegan but is clear he does not hold any personal rancour. He will not be standing for public office again and plans to retire to Cahersiveen in County Kerry.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 22 October 1976. The reporter is Ronnie Turner.
Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh was succeeded as President by Patrick Hillery.
