Paying tribute to a former leader of Fine Gael James Dillon.
Fine Gael politician and former leader of the party James Dillon died on 10 February 1986.
'Today Tonight' marks the passing of an Irish politician, the third generation of a family that is part of Irish history. Grandson of the Young Ireland leader John Blake Dillon, and the son of the last leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party John Dillon. James Dillon served as leader of Fine Gael from 1959 to 1965.
He crossed party lines. Yet, all was forgiven to a man who put principle first, who refused to bow to pressure or transient popularity, who was the acknowledged finest orator in twentieth century Ireland and knew how to wait for attention.
Speaking in 1983 at the 60th anniversary of the founding of Cumann na nGaedheal he addressed a crowd at the Mansion House in Dublin, 66 years after he first stood on a political platform. He pays tribute to the former leaders and members of the party which became Fine Gael. He describes politics as a vocation and refers to the Blueshirts struggle to preserve free speech in Ireland. The celebrations were attended by current and past leaders and members of Fine Gael.
James Dillon (1983)
While it is good to dream dreams and to see visions, it is well to remember the fundamental maxim of successful politics and that is 'United We Stand, Divided We Fall.
James Dillon says that he is glad to serve today as a veteran in the field under a great and good man Dr Garret FitzGerald.
Former Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Liam Cosgrave talks to Brian Farrell and remembers the unique contribution of James Dillon to parliament, public life and the political process. Liam Cosgrave describes James Dillon as "very easy to work with", almost always in good humour, somewhat flamboyant and a powerful orator.
I often thought that if he'd gone on the stage, he’d have rivalled Mac Liammóir as an actor.
‘Today Tonight’ broadcast on 11 February 1986. The presenters are Una Claffey and Brian Farrell.
