The Taoiseach has paid tribute to former senator Billy Lawless after his death at the age of 73.
Mr Lawless was a businessman and served as a senator from 2016 to 2020 after being nominated by former taoiseach Enda Kenny.
He was born in Co Galway in 1950 and emigrated to Chicago in the 1990s, becoming a successful businessman.
Taoiseach Simon Harris described Mr Lawless as a "gentleman to his core".
He said: "It is with the utmost sadness that I have learned of the death of former senator Billy Lawless.
"Billy Lawless was a gentleman to his core, he was a businessman at the top of his game, and he was a person who accepted a challenge from former taoiseach Enda Kenny - to travel from Chicago to Leinster House to represent the Irish diaspora.
"He did his work with diligence and great pride; he was great company, and he was an extremely kind man.
"To his family and large circle of friends and colleagues, I am truly sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace."
Senators Victor Boyhan and Michael McDowell also paid tribute to their "dear friend and colleague".
Senator Boyhan and Senator McDowell were part of the Seanad Independent Group alongside Mr Lawless from 2016 to 2020.
They said: "Billy was a tireless advocate for the diaspora and the undocumented Irish in the United States.
"He was a political force who made a difference in Irish and American politics over many decades, but above all, a husband, father and grandfather who will be dearly missed in Chicago, Galway and further afield.
"Former senator Lawless greatly helped the cause of Irish immigrants and was made Freeman of Galway for these efforts. He was also conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by University of Galway.
"On behalf of the current and former Seanad Independent Group we remember Billy today and send our heartfelt sympathies to his wife Anne, children and grandchildren."
