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In her own low-key but resolute way, Philomena Lynott, who died last week aged 88, played an important part in changing the face of modern Ireland

Philomena Lynott at the unveiling of the repaired statue of her late son Phil off Grafton Street in Dublin in August 2013 Pic: PA

Philomena Lynott was a dignified, formidable and courageous presence – and in her own way, she was just as important a figure in Irish culture as her son.

Oh sure, Thin Lizzy fans might disagree with that latter point – and it’s true there is no bronze statue erected in Philomena’s honour in Dublin, the way there is with Phil Lynott of Thin Lizzy, who stands resplendent with his guitar on a podium ...