The funeral of former tánaiste John Wilson (84) will take place in Cavan today.
Mr Wilson, who died on Monday, was a native of Co Cavan and had a distinguished record as an academic and Gaelic footballer when he was first elected to the Dáil at the age of 50, in 1973.
He succeeded Brian Lenihan as tánaiste in 1990, having failed to secure the Fianna Fáil nomination to contest the presidency. He retired from the Dáil in 1992.
His body was removed yesterday from his Dublin home in Churchtown to the nearby Church of the Good Shepherd, where they were received by parish priest Fr John Killeen.
Speaking at the removal last night, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said Mr Wilson "was a gentleman and scholar".
As well as praising his ministerial career, Mr Ahern referred to Mr Wilson's distinguished sporting and academic prowess.
"John Wilson earned renown as a young man on the sports field, but fame never spoiled him. He earned distinction as a scholar, but learning never weighed upon him. He attained high office in politics, but power did not change him."
President Mary McAleese was represented at the removal.
Mr Wilson will be buried in Cavan today after requiem Mass in Dublin.