First ombudsman Mills dies, aged 80

IRELAND’S first ombudsman was applauded for his integrity yesterday as tributes poured in for Michael Mills following his death.

Though associated with a Fianna Fáil newspaper, the political journalist was chosen to be a people’s rights champion by the Fine Gael taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, and later stood up to Charles Haughey.

Mr FitzGerald said he appointed Mr Mills to the role in 1984 as he believed the ombudsman should be prepared to fight for justice.