Statement on the death of Labour Youth Chair Cormac Ó Braonáin

Labour Party Leader, Brendan Howlin TD, has expressed his deep sadness and grief on hearing of the tragic and untimely death of recently elected Labour Youth Chairperson, Cormac Ó Braonáin, who died early on Sunday morning.

Deputy Howlin said:

“I was deeply shocked when I heard of Cormac’s untimely death. On behalf of the Labour Party I want to express my deepest sympathy and sadness to his parents Lughaidh and Eva, and their family on the tragic loss of their son Cormac who had already done so much in his life to date.

“I want to also extend my condolences to Cormac’s many friends and comrades from every conceivable walk of life who will, like me, have been filled with inspiration and hope when spending time with Cormac.

“Cormac who was only 19 had recently taken over as Chairperson of Labour Youth and he had taken up the position with energy, enthusiasm and passion. At the same time he had also been appointed to our National Executive. During his time in the Party he had already made a huge impression, working tirelessly to advocate for the politics of our movement. As Director of Elections for Cllr Mary Freehill in the local elections he oversaw her re-election to Dublin City Council with an increased mandate. Within Labour Youth he was a positive force for good.

“When someone so young dies it is hard to find the words to express our loss but in his short time with us, he leaves a strong legacy. Cormac had achieved so much, and had brought so much new energy to Labour Youth. As Chairperson of the UCD Labour branch over the last two years he had re-invigorated the branch and was passionate in his campaigns and events.

“Cormac embodied all that was good about our movement and would have been a leading light in the future of our party, as he left no stone unturned in his drive for success. He was not just a democratic socialist but also a committed Gaeilgeoir and strong proponent of our national language. Our grief and sadness are sharpened all the more by the wonderful memories we have of Cormac.

“Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam dílis”