Mayo TD pays tribute to John Bruton on his passing

Mayo TD Michael Ring has expressed his sorrow at the passing of former Taoiseach John Bruton.

Deputy Ring served under John Bruton during John’s time as Taoiseach.

The Westport-based representative stated: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the wonderful John Bruton.

"John was a thorough gentleman with an incredible mind and work ethic.

“I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to John’s wife, Finola, son Matthew, daughters- Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth, John’s grandchildren, sons-in-law, John’s brother- Richard and sister-Mary and extended family and friends.

“John will be a tremendous loss to his family. He was a decent, hardworking man."

Deputy Michael Ring continued: “In 1994, I was elected in a by-election.

"This seat resulted in Fine Gael being able to go in Government with John becoming Taoiseach. It was an honour to serve under John’s leadership.

"He was an excellent Taoiseach and Statesman. He carried out tremendous work in relation to Northern Ireland.

“John was also Ambassador of the European Union to the United States from 2004 to 2009. He served this role with distinction. John had great vision”.

“We became wonderful friends and I valued his friendship. We had a great connection and we maintained this friendship through the years”.

“John will be a huge loss to his family and this country. John will be remembered very fondly by all who knew and loved him."