Fine Gael to hold June event to commemorate centenary of former Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald

Fine Gael is to mark the 100^th anniversary of the birth of former Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald with a special event to be held in Dublin next month.

The party is to host an afternoon of lectures, insights and reminiscences on the 14^th of June next, at O’Reilly Hall in UCD.

The event will celebrate FitzGerald’s life, legacy, and contribution to public service, diplomacy, and national renewal; featuring contributions from An Tánaiste Simon Harris, former Fine Gael Ministers Richard Bruton, Alan Dukes and Nora Owen, as well as figures from the Irish media and public life.

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 leadership strengthened Ireland’s role in Europe, advanced social reform and laid essential groundwork for the Peace Process through the New Ireland Forum and the Anglo-Irish Agreement.

Tánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said: “I am very pleased that this very important event will be hosted in the coming weeks. Garret FitzGerald is among the most defining political leaders of recent times, and it is only right that we remember and celebrate his many achievements in public life.

“Garret was someone who not only believed in a modern Ireland but played a crucial role in shaping one. A true reformer, Garret FitzGerald’s legacy positioned Ireland as a better, more open, more inclusive and more confident society.”

Garret FitzGerald’s son Mark said: ““It’s difficult to believe that is 15 years since our father died, but time doesn’t dim the memories. He was always consumed with injustices, yet concurrently had an unbridled optimism about Ireland’s future.

“He didn’t have a public persona and a private persona- he was always just himself and the older he got he really was at his best in the company of young people listening to their ideas about the future. He was certainly learned but continually wanted to learn more

“I am very proud to have his life marked by this occasion and look forward to hearing the contributions of those who knew and worked with my father, who would have been very honoured.”

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

The Garret FitzGerald Centenary event will take place from 2pm-4.30pm, on the 14^th June at O’Reilly Hall UCD.

Tickets cost  €10 and are  available at www.tickettailor.com/events/finegael1/2206209