Dr Éamon Phoenix Foundation deeply saddened by death of Dr Martin Mansergh
29 September 2025
The Dr Éamon Phoenix Foundation has said it deeply saddened by the death of its patron, Dr Martin Mansergh.
Dr Mansergh took ill and passed away last week whilst on a trip to the Sahara with other retired parliamentarians.
The renowned politician, peacemaker and historian became patron of the Éamon Phoenix Foundation last year and spoke at the launch of its website and archives at the Public Record Office in Belfast on 12th November.
Martin Mansergh, 78, was renowned for his work as a back channel before the paramilitary ceasefires of the 1990s and as part of the Irish Government’s negotiating team for the Downing Street Declaration and the Good Friday Agreement.
Alice Phoenix, chair of the Foundation, a charity established to preserve and build upon the legacy of the late historian, said the charity was “devastated” at news of Dr Mansergh’s death.
“We were honoured that a man of Dr Mansergh’s stature agreed to this position as patron,” she said.
“Éamon and Martin worked together on the Taoiseach’s expert advisory group on centenary commemorations. Éamon held Martin in high esteem as a peace maker, a gentleman of integrity and an excellent historian. Martin never lost his interest in Northern Ireland.
“Éamon was a major force in establishing a permanent display of the politicians from all sides of the political divide in Northern Ireland including Michael Collins and Eamon de Valera.
“The opening of the display was on the 24th March 2022, and Dr Mansergh attended the launch.
“Both men enjoyed a great discussion about this new and exciting development.”
Mrs Phoenix added: “Dr Martin Mansergh attended the Memorial lectures held for Eamon in Stranmillis University College, Belfast.
“On the 12th November last year in PRONI, Dr Mansergh launched the website of the Dr. Éamon Phoenix Foundation.
“Knowing his involvement in the peace process he was extremely well received by the audience and people were captivated by his talk.
“We extend our condolences to Dr Mansergh’s wife, Liz, and all of his family and friends.”