Tributes paid to abuse survivor Michael O'Brien following his death

Sean Ryan

Tributes are being paid to an abuse survivor who famously tackled the government during a live TV debate in 2009.

Michael O’Brien (92) appeared on RTÉ’s Questions and Answers programme on 25th May 2009, where he outlined in detail his experiences of being abused as a child in St Joseph’s Industrial School in Clonmel in Co Tipperary.

Mr O’Brien was addressing then-government Minister Noel Dempsey, following the publication of the Ryan report into clerical abuse. Mr O’Brien also served as a Fianna Fáil Lord Mayor of Clonmel in 1993.

In the programme, Mr O'Brien detailed his own experiences with the commission. He said he tried to take his own life after spending five days at the commission.

"They brought a man over from Rome, 90-odd years of age to tell me I was telling lies, that I wasn’t beaten for an hour, non-stop, by two of them," Mr O’Brien said on RTÉ in 2009.

During the speech, he also addressed panel member Leo Varadkar, saying: "Can I speak to you and ask your leader to stop making a political football out of this. You hurt us when you do that. You tear the shreds from inside our body. For God’s sake, try and give us some peace, try and give us some peace, and not continue hurting us."

After he had spoken, presenter John Bowman said that Michael O'Brien's speech was the most memorable moment in 23 years of the show.

Paying tribute, one friend wrote ‘’Michael's words in 2009 inspired so many people and echoed the frustrations of this country. Deepest sympathies to the O'Brien family at this difficult time. RIP Michael’’.

Another friend wrote ‘’Rest in Eternal Peace, Michael. Your bravery in speaking out about all that you suffered as a child speaks volumes! You deserve the heaven of heavens after all that you suffered!! Your life and witness will never be forgotten!!!’’.

Michael is predeceased by his wife, Mary, and is survived by his family, Geraldine, Peter, Martin and Catriona.

His remains will repose at Fennessy's Funeral Home this Wednesday evening, April 23rd, from 5 pm to 7 p,m with removal on Thursday morning to St Mary's Church, Irishtown, at 10am, followed by interment in St.Patrick's Cemetery