President Michael D Higgins:
It is with the deepest sense of sadness that people across Ireland and beyond will have heard of the death of Vicky Phelan.
All of us who had the privilege of meeting Vicky will have been struck by the powerful inner strength and dignity with which she not only faced her own illness, but with the sense of commitment to the public good and the rights of others with which she campaigned.
Vicky, in all of this, made an enormous contribution to Irish society. Thanks to her tireless efforts, despite the terrible personal toll she herself had to carry, so many women’s lives have been protected, and will be protected in the future.
She will be deeply missed, by all of those who were in awe of her courage, her resilience, offered not only to women but to all of us in Ireland.
She will of course be missed above all by those closest to her. May I express my deepest condolences to Vicky’s parents Gaby and John, her husband Jim, her children Amelia and Darragh, and to all of her family and friends.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin:
I am deeply saddened at the passing of Vicky Phelan.
On behalf of the Government of Ireland, I extend my deepest sympathies to her husband Jim, children Amelia and Darragh, family and friends.
Vicky was a woman of extraordinary courage, integrity, warmth and generosity of spirit.
She made a very significant contribution to public life in Ireland and Vicky’s actions and commitment will live long in the memory of the entire nation.
Vicky ensured the embedding of the principle of full public disclosure in the area of public health.
Vicky stood up for the public interest, particularly in relation to the CervicalCheck scandal.
She was an outstanding advocate for women across this country, and across the globe.
Vicky always gave selflessly of her time to help others, even though she was going through severe illness herself.
The people of Ireland have a deep affection for Vicky, and will always hold her contribution to public life in the highest regard.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar:
Today Ireland has lost a woman of limitless courage, compassion and strength. I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Vicky’s family, particularly to her children on the loss of their incredible mother.
Vicky was a shining example of the power of the human spirit. Her fight to uncover the truth and the courage with which she faced her illness made her an inspiration to us all.
We mourn her as a nation, as a society, and as individuals.
Ar dheis Dé go Raibh a hAnam.
