Munster's O' Mahony is over his hamstring strain and returns to the starting XV at blindside flanker for the Stade de France game, which means that Iain Henderson is on the bench.
Brian O'Driscoll is set to make his 133rd Ireland and 141st test appearance, on what will be his final outing in the green jersey.
On the bench Iain Henderson provides cover for second row, with Jordi Murphy covering backrow and Rhys Ruddock dropping out of the match day 23.
Ian Madigan is introduced to the bench in place of Paddy Jackson.
Meanwhile, Louis Picamoles and Dmitri Szarzewski both return to the French pack.
Picamoles is named at 6 rather 8, while 19 year old Gael Fickou starts in the centre with Remi Tales replacing Julien Plisson at out half .
Ireland team to play France; 15. Rob Kearney, 14. Andrew Trimble, 13. Brian O'Driscoll, 12. Gordon D'Arcy, 11. Dave Kearney, 10. Jonathan Sexton, 9. Conor Murray, 1. Cian Healy, 2. Rory Best, 3. Mike Ross, 4. Devin Toner, 5. Paul O'Connell (Capt), 6. Peter O'Mahony, 7. Chris Henry, 8. Jamie Heaslip.
Replacements: 16. Sean Cronin, 17. Jack McGrath, 18. Martin Moore, 19. Iain Henderson, 20. Jordi Murphy, 21. Eoin Reddan, 22. Ian Madigan, 23. Fergus McFadden.
