The father of former taoiseach John Bruton, Joe, has died just days before his 100th birthday.
Mr Bruton was also father to Mary and Fine Gael deputy leader Richard Bruton.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said Mr Bruton was “an exceptional Irishman”.
“I would like to extend my sympathies to his sons John and Richard who I have had the fortune of working closely with over the years and his daughter Mary,” Mr Kenny said in a statement.
“Joe made an indelible imprint on Irish society, most particularly in the farming community. He will be remembered well by all in that community and in particular by the hundreds of small farmers across the country that sold cattle to him over many years.”
