Large numbers turn out in Dublin to pay their respects to Seán Lemass.
Former Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Seán Lemass died on 11 May 1971 at the age of 72. Thousands of people lined the streets of Dublin in a remarkable display of respect as the city marked his passing. His coffin, draped in the tricolour, was carried on an army gun carrier on a ten‑mile journey from the Mater Nursing Home to the Church of the Good Shepherd in Churchtown. Along the route, flags flew at half‑mast and traffic lights were switched off as the cortege made its way through the city. The procession paused at the GPO on O'Connell Street, where a minute’s silence was observed.
Chief mourners included his wife, Kathleen Lemass, son Noel, daughters, Maureen, Peggy and Sheila; and brother, Frank.
Taoiseach Jack Lynch attended the mass alongside members of the Cabinet, opposition figures, and Fine Gael leader Liam Cosgrave.
President Éamon de Valera was present at the funeral service at the Church of the Good Shepherd, where the remains were received by the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev. John Charles McQuaid.
Seán Lemass was buried at Deansgrange Cemetery on 14 May 1971.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 12 May 1971.
