PRESIDENT Michael D Higgins led the tributes following the death of former Fianna Fáil politician Noel Tracy.
The former TD for Galway East and minister of State in several administrations died last week at the age of 70.
Mr Treacy served as a TD for almost three decades, first winning a seat at a byelection in 1982 and remaning in the post until he retired for medical reasons in 2011.
A native of Ballinasloe, Co Galway, he worked as an auctioneer before entering public life.
Paying tribute, President Michael D Higgins said: “People in political and sporting life in Galway and beyond will be saddened to have heard of the death of Noel Treacy.
“Noel represented the people of Galway East as a TD for almost 30 years and served as a dedicated public representative and Minister of State across a wide range of portfolios over the course of his political life.”
He added: “An engaging and courteous parliamentarian, he was deeply committed to his constituents.
“As a former chair of Galway GAA, Noel gave generously of his time and energy and was always at the heart of his community in all their activities.
“May I send my deepest sympathies to his wife Mary, his children and grandchildren, and to all his family and friends.”
Mr Treacy is survived by his wife Mary and his four children and grandchildren.
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