Taoiseach to visit Cavan next week

The Taoiseach is set to visit Cavan.

He’ll be in the county next Friday (November 5) to give a graveside oration at the grave of former TD Paddy Smith.

An event is being held to mark 100 years since he was sentenced to death for treason during the War of Independence. He was later released under the terms of the truce agreed at the end of the conflict.

He went on to become the longest serving TD in the Dáil having been elected between 1923 and 1977, a record he still holds.

He also served as Minister for Agriculture, Social Welfare, Local Government and as Chief Whip.

Knockbride Fianna Fáil Cumainn and TD Niamh Smyth, a niece of Paddy Smith, have organised the event.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin will deliver the oration at St Brigid’s Church in Tunnyduff, with TD Eamon Ó’Cúiv acting as master of ceremonies.