Former Taoiseach Dr Garret Fitzgerald has died in hospital in Dublin after a short illness.
The 85-year-old served twice as Taoiseach between 1981 and 1987 at the head of Fine Gael – Labour coalition governments.
In a statement this morning – his family has paid tribute to the doctors, nurses and staff at the Mater Private hospital for the care Dr Fitzgerald received during his illness.
They also say he was a much loved and adored father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be sadly missed by his extended family.
Details of his funeral arrangements will be announced later.
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