Taoiseach leads tributes after death of 'stalwart' Cork cricket player and businessman

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Taoiseach Micheál Martin has offered his condolences following the death of a well-known Cork businessman and former cricket star.

Pat (PJ) Dineen was living in Blackrock and passed away peacefully yesterday surrounded by his loving family. He is remembered as a "stalwart of Irish cricket", having played for the country 23 times, and for his role as chair of a number of major state firms including Bord Gais, Bord na Mona and Irish Steel.

The father of three started playing cricket at 16 and captained the Cork Cricket Club on six occasions between 1963 and 1984. One of his biggest sporting career highlights was being part of the squad that famously beat the West Indies cricket team at Sion Mills in 1969.

He was president of the Irish Cricket Union in 1987.

(Image: Cork County Cricket Club)

Taoiseach Micheal Martin took some time out of his trip to the European Council in Brussels today to pay tribute to the Cork man. He said: "A great wit with a keen business mind, Pat guided Bord Gáis, Irish Steel and Bord na Móna through some successful and challenging times.

"Pat retained his lifelong love of cricket, having been part of the Irish team that famously defeated the West Indies in 1969. My sympathies go to his wife Colette, children and wider family and many friends in his native Cork."

The Cork County Cricket Club also paid tribute to Pat online today, saying he made 'an indelible mark both on and off the field.'

Their statement reads: "A stalwart of Irish cricket, Pat played 23 times for Ireland, including the famous 1969 victory over the West Indies at Sion Mills.

"His leadership and dedication were instrumental in Cork County’s success, standing alongside greats such as Bryan O'Donnell, Ian Devine, Leo Durity, and Dermot Giltinan among others in an era when the Mardyke hosted some of the finest players in Irish cricket.

"Pat’s legacy is woven into the club’s history, from leading the side during a golden era of touring fixtures to mentoring generations of Cork County cricketers. His contributions to the game and his club will not be forgotten.

"Our deepest condolences to his son Peter and the rest of the Dineen family."

Pat is dearly missed by his wife and family, brother, son-in-law Harry, daughter-in-law Julie, grandchildren Jack, David, Sally, Alex and Charlie, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

He will repose at Temple Hill Funeral Home, Boreenmanna Road of Jerh. O’Connor Ltd. today from 5.00pm to 6.00pm.

Pat's Requiem Mass will take place at 10.00am on Saturday (March 22nd) in St. Joseph’s SMA Church, Blackrock - funeral will take place privately afterwards.

May he rest in peace.

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