President Michael D Higgins has led tributes to former Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East Noel Treacy, who has died aged 70.
Mr Treacy, who was from Ballinasloe, served as Minister of State in a number of departments during his 30-year political career.
He was 17 years old when he joined Fianna Fáil in 1969.
Mr Treacy was first elected to the Dáil in 1982 when he topped the poll in a by-election. He was re-elected in all subsequent general elections between 1987 and 2007.
He retired from politics in 2011 for health reasons, but served as chairman of Galway County GAA Board in recent years.
Mr Treacy is survived by his wife Mary, his four children and his grandchildren.
President Higgins described him as "an engaging and courteous parliamentarian, deeply committed to his constituents".
"People in political and sporting life in Galway and beyond will be saddened to have heard of the death of Noel Treacy," President Higgins said.
"Noel represented the people of Galway East as a TD for almost 30 years and served as a dedicated public representative and Minister of State across a wide range of portfolios over the course of his political life.
"An engaging and courteous parliamentarian, he was deeply committed to his constituents.
"As a former chair of Galway GAA, Noel gave generously of his time and energy and was always at the heart of his community in all their activities.
"May I send my deepest sympathies to his wife Mary, his children and grandchildren, and to all his family and friends. Suaimhneas síorí dá anam."
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Mr Treacy was an "outstanding and dedicated public servant" who gave "a tremendous amount to his country, to the people of Galway East and to Fianna Fáil".
"He cared deeply about his community and his country and through a lifetime of service played a significant role in making both better places to live in.
"Because Noel believed in just getting on with the job in hand many people may not be aware of the fact that he made an important contribution in key areas as a Minister.
"In particular, as Minister for Science and Technology he led at a critical time in putting in place key parts of our modern economy and as Minister for Europe, he worked tirelessly to make sure that Ireland was a constructive and effective member of the European Union.
"I warmly remember his friendship, his warmth and welcoming smile. But most of all I remember a man with an infectious enthusiasm and energy. Noel loved his county, his country and his Party and left his mark on each."
