Clan Sweeney is an Irish clan of Scottish origin. The Mac Suibhne family did not permanently settle in Ireland before the beginning of the 14th century, when they became Gallowglass soldiers for the Ua Domnaill dynasty of Tír Chonaill. The clan also claims an Irish descent from a prince of the Uí Néill dynasty, Ánrothán Ua Néill, son of Áed, son of Flaithbertach Ua Néill, King of Ailech and Cenél nEógain, died 1036. Through this descent the clan can claim a descent from Niall Noigíallach.
Castle Sween, thought to have been built by Suibne, son of Dunslebh, son of Aodh of Buirche (Hugh the Splendid), son of Ánrothán.
A plate from The Image of Irelande, by John Derricke, published in 1581. The chief sitting at his table, entertained by his bard and harper is thought to be a "Mac Sweyne".[citation needed]
Castle Doe, Barmkin and Keep.
Irish clans are traditional kinship groups sharing a common surname and heritage and existing in a lineage-based society, originating prior to the 17th century. A clan included the chief and his patrilineal relatives; however, Irish clans also included unrelated clients of the chief.
James O'Higgins Norman receives a presentation from the Prince of Ó Murchadha (Murphy) Clan at Annual Clans Dinner in the Mansion House Dublin, April 2014. Also in the photograph is Kathryn Simms of Trinity College Dublin.
President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, centre, receives the Order of Clans of Ireland from Michael J. Egan, right, Cathoirleach of Clans of Ireland.
