Joseph Brennan (Irish politician) - Definition and Overview

Joseph Brennan (1930 - 1980), was a senior Irish politician.

Brennan was born in Dunkineely in County Donegal in 1913. He was educated locally and developed great skill at Gaelic Football, playing for his county team. Brennan was elected as a Fianna Fáil TD in 1951 and at each election until his death. In 1958 he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance, becoming Parliamentary Secreatry to the Taoiseach in 1961. Brennan joined the Cabinet in 1965 when he became Minister for Posts & Telegraphs.

The following year he became Minister for Social Welfare. Following the general election in 1969 he became Minister for Labour. In the wake of the Arms Crisis he also took on the Social Welfare portfolio. In 1977 Fianna Fáil were back in power and Brennan became Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann, a position he held until his death in 1980.

Cabinet Positions