Reynolds, Albert

Reynolds, Albert (b. 3 Nov. 1932). Prime Minister (Taoiseach) of the Irish Republic 1992–4 Born in Rooskey, Co. Roscommon, he spent many years as a businessman. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann (the Irish Parliament) in 1977 as the Fianna Fáil member for Longford. He was Minister for Post and Telegraphs (1979–82), for Transport (1979–82), for Industry and Energy (1982), Industry and Commerce (1987–8), and Finance (1988–91). He replaced Haughey as leader of the party in February 1992. His administration saw the passage of the Maastricht Treaty Referendum in June 1992 and the signing of the Downing Street Declaration in 1993. He led Fianna Fáil to an electoral victory in January 1993, and formed a coalition with Labour. He continued in his involvement in the Northern Ireland peace process, and his public acceptance of Gerry Adams as a legitimate spokesperson of the Catholic community in Northern Ireland encouraged the IRA to declare a ceasefire which began on 30 August 1994 (lasting until 9 February 1996). Labour pulled out of the coalition on 16 November 1994 in disagreement over a judicial appointment to the presidency of the high court. Reynolds resigned, and was succeeded by Bruton.