The passing of Karl Mullen

It is with sadness on behalf of Paul and Freda Mullen that the Diary records the death of Paul's father Karl. He was 83.

He will be sadly missed by his daughters Louise, Niamh, Mary, Gaye and Anna, sons Karl, Paul and Marc, their partners, his 18 grandchildren and the family's friends.

Dr Mullen's wife Doreen passed away almost a year ago.

Karl Mullen captained the team that won Ireland's first Grand Slam. He led Ireland's undefeated Five Nations campaign in 1948, a feat that remained unequalled until this year. He also captained the British and Irish Lions on their tour to Australia and New Zealand in 1950. He achieved 25 Irish caps in the 1940s and 1950s.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.