The funeral of Cork actor Michael Twomey is to take place at 1pm tomorrow at St Michael's Church in Blackrock, Cork, with cremation afterwards at the Island Crematorium in Ringaskiddy.
The 84-year-old died at the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork yesterday following a short illness.
President Michael D Higgins said: "Michael Twomey was a man of immense, character and talent, and one of our most gifted actors who made a profound and distinctive contribution to our society.
"He was a man of powerful presence coupled with captivating personality and talent.
"His contribution and commitment to theatre and the arts was immeasurable. He received many awards throughout his illustrious career including an award for his lifetime contribution to professional and amateur theatre, arts and song in Cork city.
"He will be remembered fondly by all of us who knew him and enjoyed his humour, his talent, and his generosity in mentoring and supporting the development of emerging talent in theatre.
Among those who expressed their sympathies to the Twomey family today was Anthony O'Gara of the Rose of Tralee International Festival.
Mr O'Gara recalled that Mr Twomey hosted the Rose of Tralee selection in 1972 when Claire Dubendorfer won for Switzerland and returned as the festival's guest in 2009 when it celebrated 50 years.
