Veteran Journalist Paddy Clancy Passes Away at 82, Leaving Legacy

Paddy Clancy, a distinguished journalist known for his impactful training of a generation of reporters, passed away at the age of 82. His death marks the end of an era for many who worked under his guidance at the Irish Sun during the 1990s and 2000s. Clancy, affectionately nicknamed “Both Barrels,” was renowned for his tough yet nurturing mentorship style.

Born in Sligo, Clancy dedicated over 60 years of his life to journalism, earning a reputation as a formidable figure in the field. He was known for his straightforward approach, often delivering stern critiques to his reporters. “Cormac, you f**ked up” was a phrase many dreaded but also learned from, as Clancy believed in the importance of producing sharp, clear news reporting.

His office, located at the top of the newsroom, became a hub for instruction. Clancy was meticulous about writing style. He emphasized concise sentences and often dictated the structure of stories. Reporters learned quickly that every first paragraph required a dash for emphasis, as it added vitality to the writing. His insistence on clarity and immediacy shaped the writing of those who trained under him.

Clancy’s passion for journalism extended beyond the office. He was known for rapid-response assignments, often calling reporters with the directive, “Drop everything.” Such moments demonstrated his keen sense of newsworthiness, pushing his team to act swiftly. One notable instance was during the Abbeylara tragedy in April 2000, a moment that showcased his ability to mobilize reporters effectively.

In addition to his gruff exterior, Clancy had a warm side. He enjoyed socializing with colleagues, particularly during festive gatherings, though anecdotes from those nights remain reserved for more private conversations. His presence in the newsroom was often characterized by his trademark cardigan and frequent phone calls to his beloved wife, Bernie.

Noel Baker, a former colleague at the Irish Examiner, recalled his experiences with Clancy. On Baker’s first day, he received a reprimand for filing a story too early, a testament to Clancy’s high standards. “Paddy was gruff and brusque, but once you got to know him, he was an incredible influence,” Baker noted. “His news instincts were unbelievable, as was his ability to write effective, sharp copy.”

Clancy also made a significant impact on radio, lending his voice to RTÉ Morning Ireland, where he presented the segment ‘It Says In the Papers’ for decades. His contributions to journalism were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the NewsBrands Ireland Journalism Awards in 2019.

Despite officially retiring as a freelancer in 2023, Clancy’s legacy continues through the journalists he trained. His influence remains evident in the industry, as many of his former reporters honor him by raising a glass in tribute. Paddy Clancy’s passing is a profound loss to journalism, but his teachings and impact will endure in the stories told by those he guided.