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Cork funeral for former agriculture minister Joe Walsh

Joe Walsh's funeral took place at the parish church in Clonakilty
Joe Walsh's funeral took place at the parish church in Clonakilty

Hundreds of people have paid their respects to former minister for agriculture Joe Walsh at his funeral in Cork.

The 71-year-old, who held the agriculture portfolio for ten years, died in hospital on Sunday.

His sons, brothers, friends and local Cumann members helped to carry his coffin from the family home in Emmet Square to the parish church in Clonakilty.

Hundreds of people from all walks of life streamed into the church to pay their respects to his widow Marie and his five children.

Colonel Brendan McAndrews represented President Michael D Higgins, who is on an official three-week trip to Africa.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny was represented by Cmdt Ciaran Carey.

Also in attendance were two former taoisigh, Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, former IFA leader Tom Parlon and head of Northern Ireland Horse Board Hugh McCusker.

Mr Walsh was best remembered for his role as minister during the foot-and-mouth crisis in 2001.

He was first elected as a Fianna Fáil TD for Cork South West in 1977.

Mr Walsh was buried at Ahiohill Cemetery.