Seán J. Connolly, Irish Gay Rights Pioneer, Passes Away at 75

The Irish Gay Rights Movement mourns the loss of co-founder Seán J. Connolly, who passed away on January 29, 2026, at the age of 75. Connolly, a dedicated human rights activist, died at the Connolly Memorial Hospital in Blanchardstown after a period of illness. His funeral was held on January 30 at the Church of Christ of the Good Shepherd in Four-Roads, County Roscommon.

Legacy of Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights

Connolly was a pivotal figure in the establishment of the Irish Gay Rights Movement (IGRM) in June 1974, alongside other prominent activists, including David Norris, Clem Clancy, Edmund Lynch, Kenneth Jackson, and Martin Barnes. The organisation formed during a time when same-sex activity was still criminalised in Ireland, advocating for legislative reform and working to dismantle social prejudices surrounding the LGBTQ+ community.

As the Dublin branch of the IGRM gained momentum, Connolly and Clancy expanded their efforts to Cork, where they established additional premises and launched the city’s first LGBTQ+ disco. The movement not only campaigned for legal rights but also fostered community connections, providing vital social facilities, counselling, and befriending services. They organised discos and coffee meetings in both Dublin and Cork, creating spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to come together.

In the late 1970s, the IGRM began to gain mainstream visibility. Connolly featured in the RTÉ production Last House, alongside fellow activists Jimmy Malone and Phil Carson. This exposure helped to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues in Ireland.

Remembering a Kind Advocate

In tributes shared on the memorial site RIP.ie, many remember Seán Connolly as a kind and generous individual, deeply committed to human rights. He is survived by his siblings, Eamon and Bernadette, as well as his extended family. Connolly was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Linda, and his brother Patrick.

Connolly’s contributions to the LGBTQ+ rights movement have left an indelible mark on Irish society. His work has inspired countless individuals and helped to pave the way for the significant advancements in LGBTQ+ rights that have occurred in Ireland over the past few decades. The IGRM and the wider community continue to honour his legacy and the principles he championed throughout his life.

As the movement reflects on Connolly’s impact, it underscores the ongoing need for support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in regions where such issues remain contentious. The Irish Gay Rights Movement continues to serve as a vital resource for the community, highlighting the importance of solidarity and activism in the face of ongoing challenges.