Former Tipperary TD Tom Hayes mourns passing of former Taoiseach and FG leader Bruton

Former Tipperary TD Tom Hayes has expressed his sadness at the passing of former Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach, John Bruton, whose death was announced this Tuesday.

"I was both shocked and saddened to learn of the death of former Taoiseach John Bruton.  I knew John over many, many years and found him to be a most upright politician, who believed passionately about Ireland and was totally committee to the betterment of all of Irish society," said Mr Hayes, a former Minister of State for Agriculture and Transport.

Mr Hayes recalled that Mr Bruton had been Fine Gael leader during his first Dáil by-election campaign in 2000 when he made many friends throughout south Tipperary and where he will be remembered with fondness.

"I wish to extend my sympathy to his wife Finola and all the Bruton family. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam," he said.