Tánaiste and Progressive Democrats leader Michael McDowell paid tribute to his party colleague, the late Senator Kate Walsh who died yesterday morning, as "a gentle yet brave woman, whose many achievements made her an inspirational figure".
Mr McDowell added that the Kildare North senator was "a lovely person and a true friend" who did exceptional work in her local community and was admired by all.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said Senator Walsh was "dedicated to her local community for many years before she came into Leinster House and her work in politics was a continuation of that deeply-rooted community involvement".
Labour Party Kildare North TD Emmet Stagg said Senator Walsh was "the quintessential community activist and constituency politician" who had worked selflessly for the elderly members of the community in particular.
Ms Walsh was nominated to Seanad Éireann in June 2002 having contested the general election for the PDs in North Kildare. She became a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Social and Family Affairs and in April 2003 was appointed the PD spokeswoman for this area.
She lived in Celbridge for most of her adult life and for the last 30 years had been involved in voluntary and community work.
Each year, in November, she organised the "Black and White Ball", the proceeds of which went to the care of the aged.
In the local elections in June, 1999, she topped the poll in the electoral area of Celbridge and was elected to Kildare council. On that occasion she gained the highest first preference vote of any female candidate in the State.