Singer Joe Dolan (68) dies following short illness

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has led the tributes to the singer Joe Dolan, who died yesterday following a short illness.

Dolan died just after 3pm in the Mater hopsital in Dublin. He was brought to hospital when he became ill at his home in Foxrock, Dublin, on Christmas night.

A statement from Dolan's management said he had been in a critical condition following a brain haemorrage and that he died peacefully with his family at his side.

Dolan (68) was a native of Mullingar, Co Westmeath, and enjoyed success in Ireland and worldwide for more than 40 years.

The Taoiseach said he was one of "our first big stars" both on a national and international stage.

"It is only a couple of months since I last met Joe and it was always great talking to him. We kept in regular contact. He was a fantastic showman, had great stage presence, had a distinctive singing voice and never forgot his roots.

"He had an amazingly loyal legion of fans in Ireland and abroad, and I know these fans will be saddened to hear of his death and I share their sorrow," Mr Ahern said.

Dolan's first chart success came in 1964 when his band The Drifters released The Answer To Everything. A string of hits followed in the showband era of the 1960s and 1970s and he entertained fans across Europe, Argentina and Brazil. Dolan sold millions of records, including hits such as Good Looking Womanand It's You, It's You, It's You.

In the 1990s, Dolan's career underwent a renaissance with the release of a covers album of contemporary hits bringing his voice to a new audience.

One of a family of seven, Dolan is survived by his brothers, Ben, who played in The Drifters, Paddy and Vincent and sisters Dympna and Imelda. He is predeceased by his brother James.

Fine Gael spokeswoman on Arts, Sports and Tourism Olivia Mitchell expressed her deepest sympathies to Dolan's family.

"For 40 years, Joe Dolan experienced success in Ireland and around the world but he will be mainly remembered for the joy he brought to thousands. Everyone who had the fortune to meet Joe spoke of his good humour and engaging personality and his live shows were legendary. On this very sad day, I wish to express the sympathy of all those in Fine Gael to Joe Dolan's family," she said.

Dolan's family said they were overwhelmed with expressions of sympathy and support.

The remains will repose at Gilsenan's Funeral Home, Mullingar, tomorrow from 1.30pm. The removal will take place to the Cathedral of Christ the King, arriving at 6.30pm. The funeral will be on Saturday after 11am Mass to Walshestown cemetery.