Charles Haughey: Three-Time Irish Taoiseach Dies at 80

Charles Haughey was an Irish politician who served three times as Taoiseach. Born on September 16, 1925, in Castlebar, County Mayo, he qualified as a barrister but never practiced.

He led Fianna Fail from 1979 to 1992 and was Taoiseach in 1979-1981, 1982 and 1987-1992. His earlier posts included Justice, Agriculture and Finance ministries. He was dismissed in 1970 over the Arms Crisis and acquitted of conspiracy to import weapons for the IRA.

Haughey married Maureen Lemass, the daughter of former Taoiseach Sean Lemass, in 1951, and had four children. After he left office, the Moriarty Tribunal found that he had received more than 9 million Irish pounds from businessmen. He died at his home in Kinsealy, Dublin, on June 13, 2006, at age 80.

Achievements: Taoiseach (1979-1981, 1982, 1987-1992), leader of Fianna Fail (1979-1992).

Birth: September 16, 1925 - Castlebar, Ireland.

Profession: Politician.

Interesting Facts: His lavish lifestyle included an island home and a racehorse stable.