12 Facts About Bernard Cowen

Bernard Francis Cowen was an Irish Fianna Fail politician who served as a Minister of State from March 1982 to December 1982.

Bernard Cowen was a Senator for the Agricultural Panel from 1973 to 1977.

Bernard Cowen was educated at Clara National School and subsequently attended Tullamore CBS.

Bernard Cowen first held political office in 1967, when he was co-opted onto Offaly County Council, following the death of his father.

Fianna Fail returned to government for the fourth successive time following a general election as a new TD, Bernard Cowen remained on the backbenches.

Bernard Cowen lost his seat at the 1973 general election as a Fine Gael-Labour coalition government was formed.

Bernard Cowen was elected to the 13th Seanad for the Agricultural Panel.

Bernard Cowen returned to the Dail following the 1977 general election, when Fianna Fail returned to power in a landslide.

Bernard Cowen supported Charles Haughey's successful bid for the leadership, but failed to secure promotion to ministerial office.

Bernard Cowen was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in Dublin.

Bernard Cowen died several days later on 24 January 1984.

Bernard Cowen was survived by his wife, Mary, and three sons.