President Michael D Higgins has led tributes to former Ceann Comhairle Seán Treacy who has died aged 93.
Mr Treacy served as a TD for Tipperary south from 1961-1997.
He was Ceann Comhairle from 1973-1977 and from 1987-1997.
He also served as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 1981 until 1984.
President Higgins said his former Labour Party colleague was a distinguished parliamentarian who served with great distinction in public life for nearly five decades.
"He led many parliamentary delegations abroad over the years, representing Dáil Éireann and building
valuable political relationships all over the world", President Higgins said, adding that he had many fine memories of Mr Treacy as a colleague over a lifetime in politics.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also paid tribute to Mr Treacy, who he described as a "giant of politics" from the 1960s to the 1990s, giving "proud service to the people of Tipperary, and particularly Clonmel".
He said: "He is particularly remembered as an impartial, fair and independent Ceann Comhairle.
"I know that is how he will be remembered by many members of the Dáil. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."
Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said: "Seán was an extremely popular politician, being returned seven times as a TD before serving as an MEP for Munster in 1981.
"This impressive record is a reflection of his dedication to public service, his work ethic and his warm personality."
Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin also paid tribute to Mr Treacy, saying: "It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Seán Treacy, who was father of the house and a distinguished member of the Oireachtas for many years.
"I served with Seán in the Parliamentary Party over the years and I know he was a fantastic representative for the people of his constituency of Tipperary South. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Labour's Alan Kelly said: "Seán preceded me as TD in Tipperary and MEP in Munster, and I know he will be greatly missed by all who knew and served with him, whether as Councillor, TD or MEP.
"He made a huge contribution to our county and our country, and in particular his immense service as Ceann Comhairle and on the Council of State."
A funeral will be held for Mr Treacy on Monday at St Mary's Church, Irishtown, Co Tipperary. He will be buried afterwards at St Patrick's Cemetery.
