Funeral arrangements announced for the late Paddy Lane

THE FUNERAL arrangements have been announced for Paddy Lane, former MEP, rugby international and leader of the IFA,

He died this morning following a brief illness

His remains will repose at McMahon undertakers, Blackwater on Wednesday evening from 5.30 to 7.30pm when they will be removed to Parteen Church for 11am mass on Thursday. Burial afterwards to Mount Saint Lawrence cemetery.

The larger than life figure, would have been 78 years old on September 7 next.

Mr Lane served as IFA president between 1976 to 1980, and was involved in one of the biggest protests ever organised by Irish farmers. Current president, John Bryan, said Mr Lane battled for better conditions and facilities for farmers.

“He led farmers at what was a difficult time economically, with high inflation and interest rates eroding farm incomes,” said Mr Bryan.

Mr Lane lived and farmed at Quinpool House, Parteen just four miles from Limerick city and was a pupil at Crescent College, where he started playing rugby.

He later joined the army and rose to the rank of Captain. He won a cap for the Irish rugby team against Wales in 1964 as hooker and played for Munster against the All-Blacks in 1963.

Mr Lane become an MEP for Fianna Fail in Europe in 1989. He kept himself fit throughout his life and most Sundays would turnout with the Oakfield foot beagles. His wife, Carmel died twelve months ago.

He is sadly missed by sons Tommy and David, daughter Liz, sisters Marie and Nan O’Shea, extended family and many friends.