Alexis FitzGerald Snr facts for kids

Alexis James Oliver FitzGerald (born 4 September 1916 – died 16 June 1985) was an Irish politician, an expert in economics, and a lawyer. He was a key person in starting a big law firm in Ireland called McCann FitzGerald.

Early Life and Family

Alexis FitzGerald was born in Waterford, Ireland, on 4 September 1916. He was the fourth child of Alexis FitzGerald and Elizabeth O'Halloran.

He went to school at Clongowes Wood College. Later, he studied law and politics at University College Dublin. In 1941, he became a qualified lawyer.

In 1946, he married Grace Costello. Her father, John A. Costello, was a leader of the Fine Gael political party and a former Taoiseach (Ireland's Prime Minister). Alexis and Grace had six children together. Grace passed away in 1972. Two years later, in 1974, Alexis married Barbara Sweetman.

His Time in Politics

Alexis FitzGerald became a Senator in 1969. The Seanad Éireann is like the upper house of the Irish parliament. He was elected to represent the Industrial and Commercial Panel, which means he was chosen by people involved in business and trade. He was re-elected twice, in 1973 and 1977.

He decided to leave politics in 1981. After he left, his nephew, Alexis FitzGerald Jnr, was elected to the Seanad, also representing the Industrial and Commercial Panel.

Besides being a Senator, Alexis FitzGerald also taught economics at University College Dublin. From 1981 to 1982, he worked as a special advisor to Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald. Even though they shared the same last name, they were not related.

Alexis FitzGerald passed away on 16 June 1985. He is buried in Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin.

McCann FitzGerald Law Firm

In 1947, Alexis FitzGerald helped start a law firm in Dublin called McCann White & FitzGerald. This firm is now known as McCann FitzGerald. Today, it is one of the largest law firms in Ireland. Alexis FitzGerald was the main senior partner of the firm until he died in 1985.]]]