Taoiseach Micheál Martin has led tributes to former Limerick TD Eddie Wade, who died yesterday.
Mr Martin said he was deeply saddened to learn of the death of the long-serving Fianna Fáil councillor yesterday.
Mr Wade was first elected to Limerick County Council in 1979, representing Castleconnell, and was re-elected at every subsequent local election until his retirement in 2014.
He was elected to the 28th Dáil in 1997 and served as TD for Limerick East until 2002.
"Eddie was a tireless champion for the people of Castleconnell and for all of Limerick, always striving to improve his community," said the Taoiseach.
Mr Martin said that the Limerick man's record of public service was "remarkable".
"Eddie was a councillor of distinction for 35 years, with a stellar record of delivery and service," he said.
"He was re-elected as councillor at every election until his retirement in 2014, a testament to the trust his constituents had in him."
Mr Martin said that he remembered his colleague "continuously advocating for the people of Limerick, always seeking to improve their lives and region".
"He was a good friend and I always enjoyed his company," he added.
"Eddie was a true pillar of the community, committed to Fianna Fáil, the GAA and other local organisations.
"He made his mark and left an indelible footprint on all organisations he served with along with the community he represented so loyally and steadfastly."
The Taoiseach offered his sympathies to Mr Wade's sisters Rita and Brenda, and his extended family.
