Ahern leads tributes to first Ombudsman
The country’s first Ombudsman Michael Mills, who died after a short illness, was praised today for his fairness, integrity and as a defender of rights.
Outgoing Taoiseach Bertie Ahern led tributes to the 80-year-old, who took on the new role in 1984 under the Fine Gael-Labour coalition after a successful journalism career.
“It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of one of Ireland’s foremost journalists and respected public servants,” Mr Ahern said.
“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.
“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.”
Mills, born and raised in Co Laois, died at the weekend after battling illness for a short illness.
Former Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald, who appointed him as the first ombudsman in 1984, described him as a fair man with a great sense of integrity.
Before heading the new office, Mills was political correspondent for The Irish Press, the popular newspaper which backed Fianna Fáil.
“He wrote in it but always fairly and objectively. It was impressive,” Dr FitzGerald said.
“The paper always allowed him to do so, it did not try to push him to be partisan.
“He had very strong views and also great integrity and everybody respected him as a journalist because of that objectivity, fairness and integrity.”
His career in the press allowed him to report on a number of defining political events and eras including the arms crisis, Sean Lemass’s leadership and the rise of late Taoiseach Charles Haughey.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said he was a scrupulously fair and balanced journalist.
“As the state’s first Ombudsman, he set the standard we have come to expect from the office,” the Mayo TD said.
“When he was appointed as Ombudsman Michael 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 said Ireland owes Mills an enormous debt of gratitude.
“Michael Mills was a man of great courage, determination and personal integrity,” Mr Gilmore said.
“As a political correspondent he won the respect and admiration of members of all parties. He was always fair and impartial in his writings, while being a fervent defender of democracy and an advocate of high standards in public life.”
After his retirement in 1995, Mills wrote his memoirs, Hurler on the Ditch, in which he revealed many of the problems he dealt with facing older people.
Bureaucracy, delays and the failure of many public servants to appreciate the difficulties faced by the elderly seeking state benefits were some of the issues he highlighted.
The work, published only two years ago, acknowledged some reforms have been made but warned there was a great need for an ongoing effort to secure the rights of older people.
The National Union of Journalists also offered sympathies to the Mills family describing him as a man of the highest integrity.
Seamus Dooley, NUJ Irish secretary, said: “Michael 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. During his 10 years as Ombudsman he contributed to the elimination of bureaucracy within the public service and was a powerful advocate on behalf of disadvantaged citizens.”
Dr Maurice Manning, president of the Irish Human Rights Commission, said: “As Ombudsman he shaped and defined the office in a way that will prove enduring.”
