Who is (or was) the Greatest Irish Person Ever?

Nano Nagle (vote for the women!)
We heard all about her in primary school (everyday)
 
Wow, I never heard of the guy. Thanks for the link SLF, I'll have to read up on him.

I read the information on Vere Foster from your link. What a humanitarian, I wish he had a fitting momument to his memory. He should be included in our childrens history books.

Some years ago I watched an R.T.E. program on him (Nationwide?).

Apparently he came from a very wealthy and privileged background with large estates in Ireland and England.

After he saw Ireland's people destitute he decided to do everything possible to help.

He beggared himself and some of his wealthy friends to this.

Not just by throwing money at the problem but by real work and thought (our govt coiuld learn something from his example)

When he died he had 12 mourners at his funeral.
 
how about ... Frank Carson.
I'm surprised some of the lawyers haven't nominated the other Carson, Edward, after the great job he did defending the Marquess of Queensberry in the libel action brought by his old university pal and hurling teammate, Oscar Wilde.