Sean O’Leary: podcast appearances and interviews

Seán O’Leary is an Irish legal professional and former judge who has held several prominent judicial positions. He served as a judge of the High Court from 2002 until his death in 2006 and was a judge of the Circuit Court from 1995 to 2002. Before his judicial appointments, O’Leary was a senator on two occasions, first from 1981 to 1982 and later from 1983 to 1987, having been nominated by the Taoiseach to the 15th and 17th Seanad. His political career included serving as Lord Mayor of Cork from 1972 to 1973 and being a member of Cork City Council as a member of the Fine Gael party. Despite unsuccessful bids for Dáil Éireann in multiple general elections, he was also known for his activism within the group known as the 'National Handlers'. Prior to becoming a barrister, O’Leary was an accountant. Throughout his judicial career, he contributed to public inquiries including chairing investigations into Dublin’s proposed Luas light rail system in 1997 and 1999, which were recognized for their efficiency. During his tenure as a High Court judge, he served as Chairman of the Residential Institutions Redress Board. O’Leary came from a family with a history of public service; his grandfather John Horgan was a TD and a Lord Mayor of Cork. O’Leary passed away at Cork University Hospital on December 22, 2006.