Gerard "Gerry" O'Malley (11 December 1944 – 20 January 2012) was an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who served as a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Limerick East constituency from 1982 to 1987. He also held ministerial office as a Minister of State during his time in Dáil Éireann.
Early Life and Education Born in Limerick, Gerry O'Malley came from one of Ireland's most prominent political families. His father, Donogh O'Malley, was a notable Fianna Fáil TD and Minister for Education, known for his work in establishing free secondary education. His uncle, Desmond O'Malley, was also a highly influential politician, serving as a senior minister for Fianna Fáil before founding the Progressive Democrats party. Gerry O'Malley was educated at Crescent College, Limerick, and later attended University College Dublin.
Political Career O'Malley followed in his family's footsteps, entering national politics with Fianna Fáil. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann at the February 1982 general election, representing the Limerick East constituency. During his period as a TD, he was appointed to ministerial office, serving as a Minister of State at the Department of Industry and Commerce in Charles Haughey's government from March to December 1982. He was re-appointed to this role in a subsequent Fianna Fáil government, serving from February 1983 to March 1987. O'Malley lost his Dáil seat at the 1987 general election and was unsuccessful in later attempts to return to national politics.
Later Life and Death After leaving national politics, O'Malley remained involved in local affairs and business. He passed away on 20 January 2012, at the age of 67.
See Also
- Donogh O'Malley
- Desmond O'Malley
- Limerick East (Dáil constituency)