THE LATE Patrick Hillery "embodied all that is best about public service", Taoiseach Brian Cowen said at a reception in the Mansion House in Dublin last night.
Speaking at the launch of Patrick Hillery: The Official Biography by John Walsh (published by New Island Press), Mr Cowen said the subject of the book was "one of the great statesmen of this country in modern times" whose life, both public and private, was "a great inspiration for those of us who have committed ourselves to public service".
Referring to Dr Hillery's 14 years in Áras an Uachtaráin, the Taoiseach said he was "an exemplary president who, in tumultuous political times, exercised his powers wisely, and diligently protected the independence of Ireland's highest office.
"He was simultaneously a real servant of the people and indeed a president of the people," Mr Cowen said.
Dr Maeve Hillery, widow of the former president, was among the attendance, along with their son Dr John Hillery, the late president's nephew Michael Hillery, his first cousin Dr Brian Hillery, chairman of Independent News and Media, and other members of the extended family.
The Taoiseach was introduced by Lord Mayor of Dublin Eibhlin Byrne.