FOLLOWING THE deaths of two of Ireland’s oldest citizens earlier this week, Áras an Uachtaráin has confirmed that the State’s oldest citizen is now Mary Kate Byrne of Maganey, Co Laois.
Ms Byrne, who turned 107 in August, has become the oldest citizen following the recent deaths of two other women.
Anastasia Kelly of Rathdowney, Co Laois, is to be buried today, having died on Friday aged 108. Her death followed that of Wexford-born Olivia Breen, who was two weeks shy of her 110th birthday when she died on September 18th.
The Irish Times reported yesterday that following Ms Kelly’s death, Katie McMenamin from Rathmullan, Co Donegal, had, at 107, become the State’s oldest citizen. However, relatives of Ms Byrne yesterday contacted the newspaper to point out that their relative was slightly older.
Áras an Uachtaráin has confirmed that, having been born on August 14th, 1904, Ms Byrne is five days older than Ms McMenamin.
Ms Byrne, who still lives in her own home, is surrounded by her family – sons, daughter-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren among them – and has family and friends who call in every day.
Ms Byrne, also known as Polly, keeps her mind active by reading a newspaper every day and remains in good health, despite a daily fry-up. She puts some of her longevity down to avoiding processed foods, biscuits and alcohol.
The Office of the President presents a centenarian bounty, a congratulatory letter and € 2,540, to Irish citizens on their 100th birthday. The person also receives a commemorative coin in a presentation box and a congratulatory letter each birthday thereafter.