The managing director of the ESB's Irish electricity division, Mr Ted Dalton, died suddenly on Tuesday. Mr Dalton (54) was on holidays with his wife Noeleen in Italy when taken ill.

From Mallow, Co Cork, Mr Dalton joined the State company in 1965. He was appointed head of its largest business unit last year. He is survived by three children. A son pre-deceased him.

An ESB spokesman said: "It is with sadness that this news has been received by the company's board, management and staff."