Tributes paid to first Ombudsman Mills

Politicians have paid tribute to Michael Mills, Ireland’s first Ombudsman, who died in Tallaght hospital at the weekend after a short illness. He was 80.

Ireland's first Ombudsman and former Irish Press political correspondent Michael Mills

Mr Mills, from Co Laois, was former Irish Presspolitical correspondent before being appointed Ombudsman by the Fine Gael-Labour government in 1984.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said he learned of the death of Mr Mills with “great sadness”. He said he was one of Ireland’s foremost journalists and respected public servants.

”For many years, Michael Mills held the respect of all sides within Leinster House for his impartial and accurate coverage of political affairs. In recognition of this impartiality and balanced approach to public life, Michael was honoured with becoming the State’s first Ombudsman," the Taoiseach said.

”Serving two terms in this position, Michael ensured that this important office garnered the respect of all strands of Irish life. The continued respect for the office of Ombudsman is a legacy in which the Mills family can take immense pride.”

Paying tribute to Mr Mills, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said he was “a scrupulously fair and balanced journalist” who, as Ombudsman, “set the standard we have come to expect from the office”.

Mr Kenny also noted that when appointed, Mr Mills “campaigned energetically for greater powers for that newly established office so that he could fairly represent the interests of the public.”

Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore described Mr Mills as a man of “great courage, determination and personal integrity”.

Mr Gilmore said he was well-respected as a political correspondent for his fair and impartial reporting. He was also a “fervent defender of democracy and an advocate of high standards in public life,” Mr Gilmore added.

“His own personal courage and integrity was also very evident from the way in which he defended his office when it came under attack from the Haughey government in the late 1980s,” the Labour leader added.

Irish Secretary of the National Union of Journalists Seamus Dooley said Mr Mills was “a distinguished journalist who wrote with clarity and precision”.

“He had a rare insight into politics and politicians and a real understanding of human nature. He had a strong commitment to social justice and he brought that passion to the post of Ombudsman.”

Former taoiseach Charles Haughey tried unsuccessfully to remove Mr Mills from the office of Ombudsman in 1989. He eventually retired in 1994.

Mr Mills is survived by his wife of 50 years Bríd and his eight children. Funeral arrangements will be made later today.