Opposition leaders express their sympathies

Charles Haughey was described as "a dominant and outstanding figure" in Irish politics in terms of intellect and ambition by Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny.

"He was also mercurial to the degree that he was in many ways a perfect contradiction, with an ability to be both charming and quite ruthless in a heartbeat. Anyone summoned to his presence did not forget the occasion.

"They say that to live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die. In the hearts of his family and friends, and in those of many within Fianna Fáil, Charles Haughey will live on in a real way as a husband, father, grandfather, trusted confidant and someone deeply loved, respected and sadly missed. Today, our hearts are with them as they mourn their loss."

He said that in the coming days and weeks, there would be much discussion about Charles Haughey the politician and there would be an opportunity for those who wished to do so to dissect and analyse the ups and downs of his political career.

"Today, of all days, as Charles Haughey leaves one life to begin another, I am sure his slow leavetaking will include this building where he lived the many highs and lows of political life for more than a quarter of a century and over which the Tricolour flies at half-mast."

Labour leader Pat Rabbitte said it would be hypocritical of him, as somebody who had opposed Mr Haughey in the House, not to say there was a darker side to his legacy. But it was not the time for a rigorous or balanced assessment but to acknowledge he bore a serious illness with great dignity and did the State some service.

"Today is a day to remember he has a family, like everyone else, which mourns his passing."

Green Party leader Trevor Sargent said that in human terms, it was a day of bereavement, particularly for Mr Haughey's wife and family but also for his supporters and the Fianna Fáil party generally. "Charles J Haughey could be said to be someone who delighted in the maxim that politics is the art of the possible. If anything, he tested that maxim to breaking point, which will be an issue for debate in the days and years to come."

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (SF, Cavan-Monaghan) also extended sympathy to the Haughey family, adding that Mr Haughey had certainly trod a chequered pathway through the political life of the nation. "Some will remember him fondly but more will hold a jaundiced view of his stewardship." He added that republicans would remember "Charlie Haughey's failure to stand up in real terms to Margaret Thatcher in 1980 and 1981."

TDs Ivor Callely (FF), Richard Bruton (FG), and Finian McGrath (Independent), who represent Dublin North Central, Mr Haughey's old constituency, joined in the expressions of sympathy.