

Kate O'Brien, Irish writer, dies
Kate O’Brien, a renowned Irish novelist and playwright, died on August 13, 1974. O’Brien was celebrated for her contributions to Irish literature, particularly her exploration of themes related to women’s independence, identity, and sexuality. Her works often challenged the conservative norms of her time, making her a significant figure in the canon of 20th-century Irish literature.

Billy Fox, Prostestant Irish Nationalist senator from Monaghan, assassinated
Billy Fox, a Protestant Irish nationalist senator and member of the Fine Gael party from County Monaghan, was assassinated on March 12, 1974. Fox was a vocal supporter of civil rights and peace in Northern Ireland during a period of intense sectarian violence known as the Troubles, which spanned from the late 1960s through to 1998.

Neil M. Gunn, author, died
Neil M. Gunn, the Scottish author and novelist, died on January 15, 1973.

RTÉ Journalist Kevin O'Kelly is imprisoned for contempt of court
RTÉ reporter Kevin O’Kelly had reported, not broadcast, his taped interview with Mac Stiofáin. He was jailed briefly for contempt in a court case arising out of the interview when Mac Stiofáin was charged with IRA membership. O’Kelly refused to identify Mac Stiofáin’s as the voice on his unbroadcast interview. The tape had been seized from his house by the Garda Síochána (police)