1561 in Ireland

Events from the year 1561 in Ireland.

Incumbent

 * Monarch: Elizabeth I

Events

 * June 8 – the Earl of Sussex, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, proclaims Shane O'Neill a traitor and begins a campaign against him which continues until 1567.
 * July 18 – Battle of the Red Sagums: Shane O'Neill destroys much of Sussex's withdrawing army.
 * c. July – English troops garrison Armagh Cathedral.
 * September – Sussex makes an unsuccessful expedition to Lough Foyle.
 * Elizabeth I of England introduces a higher standard of silver coinage for Ireland.

Births

 * Risdeard Ó Conchubhair, scribe and physician (d. 1625)
 * Donal Cam O'Sullivan Beare, clan chief (d. 1618)

Deaths

 * Sir John Alan, lawyer and statesman (b. c.1500)
 * Naisse mac Cithruadh, musician (drowned on Lough Gill)