Tributes paid after death of former taoiseach albert reynolds

Locals TDs have paid tribute this morning (Thursday) to former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds who has died at the age of 81.

He represented the constituency of Longford - Westmeath in Dáil Éireann for 25 years.

Mr Reynolds was seen as one of the architects of the Northern Ireland peace process. Outside of politics he was a highly successful band promoter and businessman.

A representative of Fianna Fail, he was elected to Dáíl Éireann on his first attempt, in 1977, and two years later was appointed to his first portfolio, as Minister for Posts and Telegraphs. He later served as Minister for Transport, Minister for Industry and Energy, Minister for Industry and Commerce, Minister for Finance, and from 1992 to 1994, as Taoiseach.

The Independent TD from South Roscommon, Denis Naughten, said it was with regret that he learned of the passing of his former constituency colleague.

'While his abiding legacy will be the Downing Street Declaration, which was one of the critical steps in securing peace on this island, he will also be the Taoiseach who introduced brevity to Irish politics with his 'one page' policy.

'While only personally knowing Albert in his final years in Dáil Éireann, I always found him to be good humoured with a jovial glint in his eye. I wish to express my sincere sympathy to his wife Kathleen, his family, the people of Longford and his neighbours in Rooskey where he grew up.'

Labour TD for Longford - Westmeath, Willie Penrose, said Mr Reynolds was 'an entrepreneur and an innovator' who brought those skills to bear in his political activities.

'He was a shrewd and tough negotiator,' said Deputy Penrose. 'He was somebody who could always act as an honest broker to bring people together. Albert Reynolds was a very affable, generous and decent person.'

 

Fine Gael TD for Longford - Westmeath, James Bannon, also extended his sympathies to Mr Renolds's family in the aftermath of his passing early this morning.

“It is with sadness that I learned this morning of the death of Albert Reynolds. As a fellow Longford man, I knew him very well. When Albert Reynolds became Taoiseach in 1992, I was Mayor of Longford and I was delighted to host a civic reception at the time to mark his appointment,' said Deputy Bannon.

“Albert was a political figure of extraordinary integrity and courage. He contributed much to community life in the Midlands and throughout the country and there is no doubt that he enriched the lives of those who were lucky enough to know him.

“I extend my sincerest sympathies to Albert’s wife Kathleen, to their seven children and to Albert’s brother Jim who lives in Longford.'