Former Fine Gael politician Bernard Allen was a hardworking servant for the people of Cork but left “politics at the front door” when he returned home to his beloved family, his funeral Mass has heard.
Taoiseach Simon Harris, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Olympic silver medallist John Treacy and Bishop Fintan Gavin of Cork and Ross were among those who gathered to pay tribute to the former Cork North-Central deputy who died last week aged 79 following a short illness. President Michael D Higgins was represented by his aide-de-camp Col Stephen Howard.
Mr Allen’s daughter Lorraine told mourners at North Cathedral in Cork that her father was known locally and nationally for his work in politics but to her, her sisters Audrey and Deirdre and their mother Marie, he was a “devoted husband and treasured dad”. He also took a great interest in his grandchildren, mourners heard.
“For such a public figure he was a very private family person. Politics was always left at the front door and he loved being home,” she said.
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She said Mr Allen’s political career began when he ran in the 1979 local elections following the death of his uncle, Sammy Allen. He ran in the 1981 general election and was returned at every election until his retirement in 2011.
“What was always lovely for us to hear when we were out canvassing in the numerous local and general elections was the true impact he had on people,” she said, adding that her father took an interest in people, listened and wanted to help in any way he could.
She said Mr Allen had an “astute political mind” and enjoyed sparring with colleagues across the political divide during his time as chairman of the Public Accounts Committee.
Bishop Noel O’Regan, the chief celebrant at the Mass, said Mr Allen was a loyal, kind and approachable man who would be remembered for his joy and humour.
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