PATSY DAN RODGERS, the King of Toraigh island off the coast of Donegal, has died at the age of 74.
Rodgers, also known as Patsaí Dan Mag Ruaidhrí, passed away on Friday evening at the Mater Hospital in Dublin surrounded by his family, reports RTÉ News.
Known as the last king of Ireland, Rodgers was elected King of Toraigh (Tory), as per the island’s custom, in 1993.
'Greatly saddened'
President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, paid tribute to ‘outstanding ambassador’ Rodgers.
“All those who love Irish culture and language will have been greatly saddened by the death of Patsy Dan Rodgers, known as the ‘King of Toraigh’ and widely respected as an advocate for Ireland’s island communities,” said President Higgins.
Rodgers was also an accomplished musician and artist (Image: Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie)“His love for Toraigh island and its people was evident in his art and his campaigns, and he was an outstanding ambassador for the island in all its welcoming diversity.
“Sabina and I send our deepest condolences to his wife Caitlin and their four children, to the entire community of Toraigh island and to all those who value Irish culture.”
Dublin roots
Born in Dublin, Rodgers had lived on the island since the age of four, when he was adopted by family on the three-mile long isle.
In the 1970s, Rodgers – also an accomplished musician and artist – helped resist government attempts to resettle the islanders in Donegal.
Patsy Dan Rodgers and former Lord Mayor of Dublin Mícheál Mac Donncha protest ferry plans for Toraigh outside the Dáil in February this year (Image: Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie)Meanwhile earlier this year, he led a protest in Dublin over plans for a replacement ferry service, which inhabitants deemed inappropriate to the island’s requirements.
Origins
Although holding no formal powers, the King of Toraigh acts as a spokesperson for the island, welcoming visitors and representing the 140 or so inhabitants.
The title reportedly dates back to the sixth century, when Christian evangelist St Colmcille granted it to an islander by the name of Duggan.
Toraigh (Tory Island) has around 140 inhabitants (Image: Defence Forces / RollingNews.ie)The saint said the title would help the island repel invaders and when the prediction came true, the island converted to Christianity.
Irish is the main language on Toraigh, which is located around nine miles off the Donegal coast.
The island consists of one road, one church, one shop, one lighthouse, one hotel, one hostel and one social club.
