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
• Donal Cam O'Sullivan Beare, clan chief

Deaths

• Sir John Alan, lawyer and statesman
• Naisse mac Cithruadh, musician