Tánaiste and Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil Micheál Martin TD conveys his deep sorrow on the passing of former Fianna Fáil Minister and TD Brendan Daly

Tánaiste and Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil Micheál Martin TD has said he is deeply saddened to learn of the death of former TD, Senator, Minister, colleague and good friend, Brendan Daly.

Brendan Daly was a deeply committed public representative of great distinction who cared deeply about his community, county and country. His was a life of long and honourable service.

Brendan Daly was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1973 and continued to represent the Clare constituency until 2002. He served as Senator between 1992 and 1997. He was a lifelong member of Fianna Fáil.

Brendan held many significant Ministerial roles across a range of departments, leaving his mark in each. During a long and distinguished career, he served in Cabinet, as Minister for Social Welfare, Defence, Marine, Fisheries and Forestry. In addition, he served as Minister of State in a number of Departments, including Foreign Affairs, Finance, An Taoiseach and Labour.

After his retirement from national politics, Brendan remained an active and valued member of Fianna Fáil in Clare, giving his much sought after advice and insights.

Commenting on his passing, Tánaiste and Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil Micheál Martin TD said “I am deeply saddened to learn of the death today of my good friend and former colleague Brendan Daly. Brendan was a warm and engaging friend. He was a truly outstanding public representative, who served the people of Clare with great diligence, care and attentiveness. He was a native of Cooraclare, a place which shaped and formed his life and about which he regularly spoke with great affection.

“Brendan cared deeply about his constituents and constituency, tirelessly campaigning and representing them and always seeking to improve their lives.

“In addition, he cared deeply about his country and was honoured to serve as Cabinet Minister and Minister of State in a number of ministries. Brendan was in public life for all the right reasons. He was a man of principle and integrity and brought great energy and commitment to his many ministerial positions.

“Today, more than anything else, I remember Brendan’s warmth, wit, intelligence and his regular advice and insights. His approach to politics was always people-centred and he had a pragmatic and positive attitude to everything he did. His energy and enthusiasm was infectious. Brendan loved his county, his country and his Party and left his mark on each.

"Brendan’s late wife, Patricia is also in our thoughts today.

“I want to express my deepest sympathies to his family, his children Niamh, Iomhar and Ronan, his grandchildren and to all his extended family and friends in Clare and beyond at this difficult and sad time.”

-ENDS-