The funeral of the former Archbishop of Dublin John Charles McQuaid takes place at St Mary's Pro-Cathedral.
The former Archbishop of Dublin, John Charles McQuaid died on 4 April 1973. After three days lying in state, his funeral took place at St Mary's Pro-Cathedral in Dublin. Despite the cold, several hundred people lined the street to pay their respects.
Cardinal Heenan came from Westminster and Cardinal Conway from Armagh. Other members of the hierarchy were there too. Also in attendance were a large number of clergy from the Dublin diocese and representatives from other churches.
The large congregation included the President Mr de Valera. He occupied a special prie-dieu beside the coffin.
Also attending were Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave, Tánaiste Brendan Corish and other government members as well as Fianna Fáil leader Jack Lynch.
Principal celebrant of the mass was Dr Dermot Ryan Archbishop of Dublin and Primate of Ireland.
Dr Ryan spoke of Dr McQuaid's many acts of generosity for the poor, the sick, the young, the aged and the homeless.
The remains of the late Archbishop of Dublin were laid to rest in the vaults under the high altar of the Pro-Cathedral. As the coffin was carried to the vaults 200 girl guides and 30 members of the Mater Hospital nursing staff formed a guard of honour.
Only relatives, prelates, the President and the Taoiseach were allowed to attend the Archbishop’s interment in the vaults.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 11 April 1973. The reporter is Tom McCaughren.
