Des Richardson

Des Richardson, a prominent figure in Irish politics, was known for his close ties to former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and played a significant role in fundraising for the Fianna Fáil party during its peak in the Celtic Tiger era. As a member of the so-called 'Drumcondra Mafia,' he was instrumental in organizing fundraising events, including the notable annual event at the Galway Races, which highlighted the party's connections with the construction industry. His career was marked by controversy, particularly regarding financial matters related to Ahern, and he was questioned during the Mahon tribunal. Despite this, he succeeded in a legal challenge against some tribunal findings. Richardson passed away at home after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with one of Ireland's most influential political periods.