Fine Gael commemorates centenary of former Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald

Fine Gael marked the 100^th anniversary of the birth of former Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald with a special event in Dublin today.

The party hosted an afternoon of discussions, insights and reminiscences at O’Reilly Hall in UCD at an event attended by over 200 people.

Garret FitzGerald’s life, legacy, and contribution to public service were discussed across three panels, which focused on the former Taoiseach’s impact on modernising Ireland, reforming Fine Gael, the Anglo-Irish agreement and European relations.

An Tánaiste and Fine Gael Leader Simon Harris made the keynote address, with other reflections from historians and journalists; including Stephen Collins, Olivia O’Leary, former Fine Gael General Secretary Peter Prendergast and former advisor to Iar-Thaoiseach FitzGerald, Michael Lillis.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin Bay South, James Geoghegan was MC for the event and moderated the panel discussions.

Born on 9^th February 1926, Garret FitzGerald was one of the most influential political figures of his generation, with a career spanning decades. He served as Taoiseach, Minister for Foreign Affairs and leader of Fine Gael, and played a central role in shaping modern Ireland.

His courageous leadership led to a stronger role for Ireland in Europe, laid essential groundwork for the Peace Process through the New Ireland Forum and the Anglo-Irish Agreement and brought about important social reforms.

Tánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said: “Garret FitzGerald’s legacy positioned Ireland as a better, more open, more inclusive and more confident society.

“A truly modern thinker, his vision ultimately changed how Ireland viewed itself and how it was viewed by the rest of the world. Today’s reflection is our way of honouring Garret and his remarkable legacy, while also reimagining his vision for a new generation.

“It is an opportunity not only to mark his contribution, but to ask how the values and ideas he championed can help us build a better future.

Garret FitzGerald’s son Mark said: “My father was a man who was always so full of purpose and he was most definitely in politics to effect change and try to modernise Ireland, bring reconciliation to the North and be part of the European project.

“There is no doubt that even when things didn’t always work out the way he planned, he was so fortunate to receive the passionate support from Fine Gael members and supporters the length and breadth of the country. This is something he always treasured “

The 2026 Fine Gael membership card also features Garret FitzGerald, in honour of the centenary.