Father of the Dáil

In Ireland, the term Father of the Dáil (Athair na Dála) is an unofficial title applied to the current member of Dáil Éireann with the longest unbroken period of service in the Dail, regardless of their position. The 'Father' has no official role in the business of the House as the title is honorific. On a number of occasions two or more men have shared the position of Father of the Dáil; there has never been a female holder of the title. James Everett was joint Father of the Dáil at his death in 1967. Oliver J. Flanagan's death occurred two months after his retirement in 1987. Neil Blaney's death in 1995 occurred while he was Father of the Dáil. The current Fathers of the Dáil are Richard Bruton and Willie O'Dea having both been first elected to the Dáil in the February 1982 general election. Bernard Durkan was elected at the 1981 general election, but lost his seat in February 1982 and was re elected in November 1982, so he does not have an unbroken record of service.

NameEntered DáilBecame FatherLeft DáilPartyFrank Fahy1918 election4 February 1948 12 July 1953 Éamon de Valera23 June 1959 Gerald Boland1923 election 23 June 1959 4 October 1961 James Ryan7 April 1965 Patrick McGilligan7 April 1965 James Everett18 December 1967 Thomas McEllistrim18 June 1969 Frank Aiken28 February 1973 Paddy Smith5 July 1977 Liam Cosgrave1943 election 5 July 1977 11 June 1981 Dan Spring11 June 1981 Oliver J. Flanagan17 February 1987 Neil BlaneyDec. 1948 by election 17 February 1987 8 November 1995 Paddy Harte1961 election 8 November 1995 6 June 1997 Seán Treacy6 June 1997 Séamus Pattison14 June 2007 Enda KennyNov. 1975 by election 14 June 2007 14 January 2020 Richard BrutonFeb. 1982 election 14 January 2020Incumbent Willie O'Dea