Limerick, Ireland – Sir Heffernan F. Considine, a prominent figure in the history of law enforcement in Ireland, has passed away at the age of 65. The late Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary breathed his last at his residence in Farmhill, Dundrum. His death marks the end of a chapter in Dublin’s public life and leaves a void in the roster of officials who navigated the complexities of Irish history during tumultuous times.
Sir Heffernan Considine, born on October 24, 1846, was the eldest son of the late Mr Heffernan Considine, a well-known resident gentleman and Clerk of Co. Limerick. His mother belonged to the esteemed Mahon family of Co. Clare. He received his education at Stonyhurst, a renowned Lancashire College, and later pursued his studies at Lincoln College, Oxford, where he earned his B.A. degree.
In 1880, Sir Heffernan married Miss Emily May Talbot, the daughter of the late John Hyacinth Talbot, D.L. of Co. Wexford. The union produced five sons and four daughters. Sir Heffernan Considine’s public service began with his appointment as High Sheriff of Co. Limerick in 1881, building upon the foundation laid by his father-in-law, who had served as an MP.. for New Ross.
In 1882, he assumed the role of Resident Magistrate, dedicating the next five years to serving in the counties of Cork and Limerick. This period coincided with the challenging phases of the land agitation, and Sir Heffernan’s adept handling of cases earned him special commendations from the Lord Lieutenant and the Irish Government on six different occasions.
Transferring to County Kerry in 1887, Sir Heffernan Considine continued his service in various counties until 1900, when he received a well-deserved promotion to the position of Deputy Inspector-General of the Royal Irish Constabulary. In this capacity, he played a significant role in implementing reforms within the force, and his administrative prowess garnered recognition from both his peers and the members of the constabulary.
Sir Heffernan’s contributions were acknowledged through honours and medals. In 1902, he was appointed a Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath (C.S.), followed by the M.V.O. in 1905 and knighthood in 1908. He also received the Queen Victoria Commemoration Medal in 1900, the King’s Medal in 1903, the King Police Medal in 1909, and the Coronation Medal in 1911.
Throughout the Royal visits to the provinces since 1900, and even during Royal visits confined to Dublin, Sir Heffernan Considine played a crucial role in organizing police arrangements. Both the late King Edward and His Majesty King George expressed their gratitude for the measures taken to ensure the success of their visits to Ireland.
In addition to his distinguished career in law enforcement, Sir Heffernan Considine served as a Deputy Lieutenant (D.L.) for Co. Limerick, where the family residence, Derk Pallasgreen, is situated. His retirement a few months ago marked the conclusion of a career marked by unwavering dedication to public service and a commitment to upholding the law during challenging times.
Dublin Daily Express – Tuesday 13 February 1912
