Feminist Activist and Irish Journalist Nell McCafferty Dies at 80

Renowned author, journalist, and feminist activist Nell McCafferty has passed away at 80. Her family confirmed she died early Wednesday at a nursing home in Co Donegal. Born in Londonderry, McCafferty was a significant figure in advocating for women’s rights across Ireland. In 1970, she co-founded the Irish Women’s Liberation Movement (IWLM).

A pioneering journalist and bold social commentator, McCafferty contributed to several publications, including the Irish Times, Sunday Tribune, and Hot Press. She authored numerous books and used her platform to address many pressing social issues.

In the 1970s, McCafferty campaigned for the legalization of contraceptives in Ireland. In 1971, she participated in the Contraceptive Train event, where members of the IWLM traveled to Belfast, purchased contraceptives, and returned to Dublin to protest at Connolly station.

Irish premier Simon Harris praised McCafferty as a “fierce, fearless and fiery” campaigner. He remarked on her intense focus on combating injustice and inequality, noting her kindness and warmth despite her uncompromising stances. Harris credited her with playing a pivotal role in transforming Ireland for the better.

Stormont First Minister and Sinn Fein vice-president Michelle O’Neill called McCafferty a “trailblazer in every sense of the word.” She highlighted McCafferty’s work with the IWLM, emphasizing her efforts to address the poverty and injustices faced by women in the late 20th century. O’Neill acknowledged McCafferty’s impact on Irish journalism, noting her courage, honesty, and significant role during the peace process and Good Friday Agreement.

Ireland’s deputy premier Micheal Martin expressed deep sadness over McCafferty’s passing. He praised her as an exceptional journalist and campaigner who had a profound impact on civil and women’s rights in Ireland. Martin noted her contributions to public debate and her enduring warmth and humor.

Ireland’s Press Ombudsman, journalist Susan McKay, also honored McCafferty’s legacy. She lauded McCafferty as a ground-breaking journalist who transformed the field by directly engaging with ordinary people and shedding light on their struggles. McKay emphasized McCafferty’s bravery and dedication to covering critical stories of her time, acknowledging the sorrow of her passing due to her prolonged illness.

SDLP leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood described McCafferty as “a mould-breaker and establishment shaker,” praising her ability to speak truth to power. He emphasized that while she will be missed, her activism will continue to inspire.

Leader of the Irish Labour Party Ivana Bacik expressed her deep sadness, calling McCafferty a “wonderful, fearless and unique feminist icon.” Bacik reminisced about the honor and privilege of knowing McCafferty and extended sympathies to her family and friends.

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins, in a piece published earlier this year to mark McCafferty’s 80th birthday, celebrated her enduring courage as a writer. He highlighted the privilege of those who had McCafferty as a friend, noting her ability to showcase humanity’s possibilities and vulnerabilities with a unique sense of humor rooted in her Derry upbringing.

McCafferty’s contributions to journalism, feminist advocacy, and social change have left an indelible mark on Ireland. Her legacy as a fearless champion for equality and justice will be remembered for generations to come.

Source: PA Archive, BBC Radio Ulster, Irish Times, X (formerly Twitter)