Rita O’Hare Die: Former Sinn Fein General Secretary Died At The Age Of 80

Then, in Washington, then-elect Barack Obama was greeted by Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams (right) and Rita O’Hare, the party’s general secretary at the time and its representative for North America.

What Happened To Rita O’Hare?

Rita O’Hare, a seasoned republican, passed away at the age of 80. The Belfast-born activist, who was active in Northern Ireland’s early civil rights movement, became one of the most well-known republicans-on-the-run during the Troubles. He left the area in 1972 after being detained and released on bail in connection with the attempted murder of a soldier.

For her involvement in an IRA attempt to smuggle weapons, she was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison in the Republic of Ireland.

Ms. O’Hare, who was formerly the editor of the republican publication An Phoblacht, held a number of important positions with Sinn Fein, including general secretary and head of publicity. She also served as Sinn Fein’s top representative in the United States for two decades. Later in life, she resided in Ireland.

About Her Family

But most importantly, Rita’s spouse Brendan, her children Terry, Frances, Rory, and Ciaran, as well as her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her brother Alan, and other family members, have suffered a devastating loss. Rita O’Hare has long been a prominent republican campaigner and a key player in the peace process in Ireland.

Rita worked with tremendous drive, energy, and ability for the unity of Ireland, for a more just society, for the cause of peace and reconciliation, and as a key member of the Sinn Fein leadership at crucial points in the party’s growth.

Rita was an articulate communicator and skilled publicist who was at the forefront of pushing the envelope and enabling Sinn Fein to grow into the contemporary, prosperous, and well-liked political party that it is today. Rita was highly intelligent and strategic in her approach to politics. The main contribution Rita will make to these events will be her lasting political legacy.