Former Minister for Defence, Willie O’Dea TD pays tribute to Lt. General Dermot Earley RIP

I am deeply saddened at the passing of Lt. General Dermot Earley and I offer my sincere condolences to his wife Mary and their six children. I also extend my deepest sympathies to the men and women of Oglaigh na hEireann who are mourning deeply today.  Dermot’s passing is an immense loss for his family and for his wider family in the Defence Forces.

One of the greatest honours I had as Minister for Defence was to be able to nominate Dermot for the position of Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces in April 2007.  I was privileged to bring his name to Cabinet for appointment, as I knew he would make an outstanding Chief of Staff.

He was a truly inspiring soldier and leader.  His approachability and respect for every member of the Defence Forces regardless of rank, ensures his tenure as Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, was one of greatness. I am extremely privileged to have worked so closely with Dermot at a time of significant change for the Defence Forces both here and overseas.  We travelled together to visit our troops serving at home and on peacekeeping missions abroad and I saw at firsthand how highly respected and admired he truly was among all ranks and ages.  Lieutenant-General Dermot Earley brought great honour and pride on the Defence Forces and on this nation as a whole. He will be deeply missed.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.