The Taoiseach says he’s "devastated" at the sudden passing of Minister Shane McEntee.
The 56-year-old died suddenly this morning.
Enda Kenny says Shane McEntee was a loyal friend and his thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very sad time.
Shane McEntee was first elected to the Dáil in 2005 in a by-election to replace the former Taoiseach John Bruton on his appointment as Ambassador to the United States.
he was re-elected in 2007 and 2011 in Meath East and was appointed Minister of State with responsibility for Food, Food Safety and Horticulture.
The father of three was born in Nobber in County Meath and lived in Castletown Kilpatrick.
His 56th birthday was just two days ago.
Before entering politics Shane was a farmer and agriculture sales rep and ran a pub.
He was involved in numerous voluntary organisations, particular the GAA and trained a number of football teams, including the Meath Minors, and had success at county level on six occasions.
His death was announced this afternoon in a brief statement from the Government saying thoughts and prayers are with his family at this deeply sad time.
