Sadness following passing of former TD and government minister

TRIBUTES have been paid to former Clare TD and government minister Brendan Daly, who passed away today aged 83.

Mr Daly was a Fianna Fáil TD for Clare from 1973 to 1992, and from 1997 to 2002. He was also a Senator for a number of years.

He served as a Government minister in portfolios including Social Welfare, Defence, the Marine and Tourism, Fisheries & Forestry, and was a Junior Minister on several occasions.

Clare TD Cathal Crowe wrote on Facebook that he was “very saddened to hear of the passing of Brendan Daly.”

“Brendan was a very good friend of mine and a valued political mentor for many years. Brendan gave years of stellar service to county, country and the Fianna Fáil party.”

Mr Crowe added: “Brendan was a beloved son of the Banner but this morning, as we learn of his passing, my thoughts and prayers are with those closest to him - Niamh, Ronan and Iomhar.

“Sleep well friend! There won’t be the likes of you again."

Another current representative for Clare has remembered Mr Daly, with Fianna Fáil Senator Timmy Dooley tweeting an image of the pair, captioned: "Brendan Daly RIP. So so sad to learn early this [morning] that my good friend and colleague for many years had passed away overnight – may he rest in peace."

Fianna Fáil leader and Tánaiste Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened to learn of the death of his "good friend and former colleague".

Speaking in the Dáil, Mr Mairtin said that Mr Daly tirelessly represented and campaigned for his constituents: "Brendan was in public life for all the right reasons. He was a man of principle and integrity and brought great energy and commitment to his many ministerial positions."

"Brendan was a warm and engaging friend. He was a truly outstanding public representative, who served the people of Clare with great diligence, care and attentiveness,” the Tánaiste added.

Mr Martin expressed his sympathies to Mr Daly's three children, grandchildren and extended family and friends. Mr Daly is predeceased by his wife Patricia.