Statement by Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin TD, on the passing of former Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Liam Cosgrave

“I am deeply saddened to hear news of the passing of former Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave this evening.

“Liam Cosgrave led a Fine-Gael Labour coalition during turbulent times in the 1970s, alongside Tánaiste and Labour leader Brendan Corish.

“I know Liam was a very close personal friend of Brendan’s from that time, and as my own mentor, Brendan often told me what a gentleman Liam Cosgrave was, and how generous of spirit he was.

“I had the privilege of meeting Liam Cosgrave myself on many occasions with his daughter Mary, and he really was a gentleman to his fingertips; a true patriot.

“On behalf of the Labour Party, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Mary, Liam’s sons Liam and Ciarán and extended family, as well as his many friends, former colleagues and all in the Fine Gael party.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”