Father of Labour TD Arthur Spring dies following illness

The death has taken place of Dr Arthur Spring, father of Labour TD Arthur J Spring, and the older brother of former tánaiste and Labour party leader Dick Spring.

Dr Spring (70), a general practitioner by profession, was also a professional golfer and a successful golf course designer.

His projects included Castlegregory golf course.

He had been ill for some time.

Dr Spring is survived by his partner, Caroline; his three children, Graham, Arthur and Julieanne; and his brothers, Dick and Donal.

He was predeceased by his sisters, Kay and Maeve.

In a tribute, Labour councillor Terry O’Brien from Tralee said Dr Spring would be a big loss to his family and to the Labour Party.

“He was always very generous with his time and an excellent canvasser.

“Whether the reaction on the doorstep was positive or negative, he always gave people time,’’ said the former Tralee mayor and close family friend.