26-06-2025
‘She was fearless' – Tributes to Kerry woman and disabilities advocate
Described as a committed and dedicated campaigner, Ms Browne referred to herself as a thalidomide survivor rather than a victim, having sought acknowledgement and statutory redress from the state.
In the 1950s, Thalidomide was a drug to treat morning sickness that was withdrawn in 1961 after it was linked to birth defects.
During childhood, hospitalisations and surgeries were common for Jacqui. This helped shape her independent outlook in activism from an early age and gave her the impetus to make inclusion and support a priority. She returned to education while working and received her BA from UCD
Jacqui was a valued member of the Disabled Persons Organisations Network and played a key role in contributing to many disability policies and initiatives for almost 40 years.
Her role includes input in the forthcoming National Disability Strategy that is symbolic of Jacqui's passion for establishing strategic change for disabled people.
Minister Foley said there is a deep sense of loss in the Department of Children, Disability and Equality as many staff knew Jacqui personally and worked with her and learned from her over many years.
"I would like to extend my sincere sympathy to the Browne family on the passing of their much-treasured Jacqui,' said Minister Foley.
"It was a personal privilege to know Jacqui as a proud Kerry woman full of warmth, wit and welcome for everyone. She was full of passion, compassion and energy in abundance. Jacqui was an eloquent and powerful advocate for people with disabilities and shone a vibrant and necessary light on disability issues,' she added.
The Minister said during Jacqui's lifetime she achieved a tremendous amount and that some of her work might be unfinished but she remains an impetus and inspiration to 'all of us' to complete it.
"We are without doubt the lesser for Jacqui's passing but greater for having had the privilege of knowing her," Minister Foley said.
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In a statement from Independent Living Movement Ireland, Jacqui is described as a person who never sought the limelight, and her involvement in policy work established advancements in disabled people's rights.
'She was a powerful public speaker and much sought after for her ability to connect policy to practice. Whilst Jacqui took on leadership roles, she was a genuine mentor to many Disabled People and saw part of her role to support other Disabled People to take on key roles,' said a spokesperson.
'She was passionate about the collective empowerment of Disabled People and gave her time generously in online workshops to ensure she shared her knowledge and expertise. Those of us who were fortunate enough to know Jacqui as a person knew someone with a passion for life. She had a wicked sense of humour, a passion for conversation. She was a wonderful host to anyone who visited her in Kerry or Dublin, kind and generous.'
The Disability Federation of Ireland also paid tribute to Jacqui saying its members are 'deeply saddened' at her passing.
'Jacqui Browne was a fearless disability advocate who devoted over 35 years to promoting equality and justice for people with disabilities,' said a spokesperson.
'We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jacqui's family, friends, and everyone who knew and worked with her. Her commitment to disability equality changed lives and will continue to shape the movement for generations.'
