Taoiseach Bertie Ahern led tributes from politicians of all parties to former Fianna Fáil MEP Niall Andrews, who died yesterday. Mr Andrews served as an MEP, a TD and a county councillor during a political career that spanned more than 30 years.
Mr Andrews was elected to the Dáil in 1977 and was appointed as a minister of state in 1982. He was elected an MEP for Dublin in 1984 and held the seat for 20 years until he retired from active politics in 2004.
His father, Todd, who took part in the 1916 Rising, was a founder member of Fianna Fáil and became the driving force behind the development of Bord na Móna and other semi-State organisations.
His brother David has served as minister for defence, foreign affairs and the marine. His son Chris has been selected as a Fianna Fáil candidate for Dublin South East in the next election and his nephew Barry is a TD for Dún Laoghaire.
Expressing his deep sympathy to the family of the late Mr Andrews, Mr Ahern noted that he had a passionate commitment to human rights around the world and had highlighted the cause of oppressed people who had few, if any advocates, in the developed world.
"Niall Andrews not only inherited a long and illustrious tradition of public service, he also enhanced it through his own contribution over 30 years," said Mr Ahern.
"His very strong support in successive European elections across the city and county of Dublin was proof of the regard in which he was held and of the success he had in convincing people of the importance and usefulness of Ireland's place in Europe and of the European institutions, including the European Parliament."
Government chief whip Tom Kitt, who succeeded Mr Andrews as Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin South in 1987, described him as a "great character, a passionate republican and a consistent advocate for the cause of the marginalised at home and abroad".
Tánaiste and leader of the Progressive Democrats Michael McDowell said: "His genuine interest in issues such as overseas development aid reflected his humanitarian nature.
"Our thoughts are with his family, particularly his son Chris, and his many close friends at this sad time."
Labour foreign affairs spokesman Michael D Higgins, who campaigned with Mr Andrews on many occasions, said he had shown great courage in his political career.
"I recall in particular our visit to Central America in the early 1980s, including a fast in support of the people of El Salvador. In the area of human rights, he showed both innovation and courage and was a great companion."
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said that while Mr Andrews came from a strong republican, anti-Treaty background, it would have been in keeping with his spirit that he passed away on the birthday of Michael Collins.
"The Andrews family have a long and proud history of service to this country and I extend my sympathy to them and to the Fianna Fáil party at this sad time."
The four sitting Fianna Fáil MEPs also extended their deepest condolences to his wife and family.
Mr Andrews is survived by his wife, Bernadette, children Christopher, Niamh (Mesch) and Kate (O'Riordan); , grandchildren; his brothers Hugh and David and sister Catherine (Tubridy).
The removal is tomorrow evening to the Church of the Holy Cross, Dundrum, Dublin, arriving at 5pm and the funeral will be held on Friday after 10am Mass to Mount Venus Cemetery.