A local Senator has paid tribute to former Taoiseach John Bruton following his death. His family released a statement saying the 76-year-old died peacefully in the Mater Hospital in Dublin after a long illness.
Speaking on today's Joe Finnegan Show, Cavan Senator Joe O'Reilly described the former Taoiseach as a "special friend" who always put others before himself. First elected to the Dail from the Meath constituency in 1969, John Bruton was a TD for 35 years - stepping down in 2004. In that time, he held many ministries - such as Finance - before becoming leader of Fine Gael in 1990. Paying tribute to his friend, Senator Joe O'Reilly said that "every person counted" when it came to John Bruton throughout his political career, adding that he was "genuine man" who had "absolute integrity."
"The country and the good of the people was first with John. His political slogan was - every person counts - and every person counted with John Bruton, there was no distinction between people, John wanted the best for everyone, he wanted opportunity for everyone and he wanted to give everyone a break. He was a very successful Taoiseach and in fact he left the Irish economy in a remarkably good position." Elsewhere, Minister Heather Humphreys also paid tribute to the former Taoiseach. In a statement posted to social media, the local Minister said; "It is with deep sadness that we learn of the death of our friend and colleague, John Bruton. John served our country as Taoiseach with great honour and distinction and leaves behind a huge political legacy. My sympathies to John’s wife Finola, his children and wider family."
