The Workers' Party has expressed its deepest sympathy to the family of the late Mick Lally on his sudden and untimely death today. At this time we offer our deepest condolences to his wife Peggy, their children Saileog, Darach and Maghnus and extended family. It is hopefully some consolation for them to know that Mick was one of the most revered and most loved actors of his generation.
 
Padraig Mannion, National Research officer of the Workers' Party stated; "Mick Lally was recognised and loved by an entire generation of Irish television audiences for his creation of the character Miley Byrne in Glenroe. Memorable as this role was, it only encapsulated a very small part of Mick Lally's contribution to Irish acting. His roles in Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe, in Druid, and in countless other productions were equally impressive and equally important".
 
"But Mick Lally was more than just an actor. He was an active and concerned citizen. He cared deeply about the state of this country and of the world and always stood on the side of the oppressed and dispossessed. Without fuss or fanfare he contributed quietly to many causes in support of workers' rights both nationally and internationally. He never used his undoubted fame to promote a particular cause or gain personal advantage."
 
"Mick Lally's commitment to the Irish language was well known. His was a practical commitment. He supported Cearta Sibhialta na Gaeltachta, the founding of Raidio na Gaeltachta and Teilifis na Gaeilge (now TG4) and the development of education at all levels through the medium of Irish. The lack of basic infrastructure for isolated communities, especially island communities, appalled him.
 
"On this day, as news that the banks are again conspiring to further impoverish not only this generation and the next, it is appropriate to reflect on the life of Mick Lally and say "here was a man who truly enriched our community".