Moira Hoey (neé Deady), who played a central role in RTE's rural soap The Riordans, died today aged 88.
Moira played the role of ‘Mary Riordan’ wife of Tom in the series from the mid 60’s to the end of the ‘70’s.
She also played Nellie Connors in Glenroe and Mrs Coffey in The Irish R.M. and starred in a number of films, including Angela's Ashes and This is my Father.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Mary Hanafin, said: "In her role as the matriarch of The Riordans homestead, she was ever present, each Sunday, on our television screens dealing with the changing landscape and domestic issues that Ireland as a country was experiencing.
“No matter what the issue being aired on screen was about, Mary would always act as the calming influence where friction arose and once the tea was made, all would work out for the good.”said Minister Hanafin.
“In 2009, the cast of the Riordan’s reunited some 30 years after the last edition was made and I know that Moira thoroughly enjoyed meeting up with the crew and showing them her well known and loved ‘pinny’, added Minister Hanafin.