President Michael D. Higgins Attends Edna O’Brien’s Funeral

President Michael D. Higgins attended the funeral of Edna O’Brien, the renowned Irish writer, at St Joseph’s Church in Tuamgraney, Co Clare, on Saturday. O’Brien, who passed away last month at 93 after a long illness, was celebrated with performances by a violinist and cellist before the service.

The ceremony featured personal symbols of O’Brien’s life, including her French Legion of Honour, presented by her grandson, and a Buddha statue symbolizing her spiritual journey. Her contributions to Irish literature were acknowledged through items like a copy of James Joyce’s *Ulysses* and a portrait of Samuel Beckett. The hymn “The Lord’s My Shepherd” was among the songs performed.

O’Brien, known for her exploration of women’s lives in a restrictive Irish society, faced controversy over her early works, including the banned *The Country Girls* trilogy. Despite this, her international acclaim remained strong.