Former Fianna Fáil TD and minister Brendan Daly has died.
Mr Daly held various portfolios during the late 1980s and 1990s including fisheries and forestry, social welfare, marine, and defence. He also served as a minister of State in a number of departments.
He was elected to Dáil Éireann to represent his native Co Clare in 1973, holding the seat at six further general elections before losing it in 1992. Mr Daly was returned at the 1997 general election, having served as a senator in the mid-1990s. He was unsuccessful again at the 2007 general election, and did not contest the subsequent elections to the Seanad.
Mr Daly, who was in his early 80s, is survived by his three children.
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Tánaiste and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin told the Dáil on Thursday that Mr Daly was “an extraordinarily committed public servant” who served in several departments. Mr Martin said Mr Daly was a “very active and valued member” of the party and was very committed to Co Clare.
“He was a very witty guy with a great sense of humour, could pull the odd prank every now and then, and he enjoyed that, but his warmth, his wit, his intelligence and his regular advice will be sorely missed,” he said.
“I just want to extend our sympathies to his children...and his grandchildren, to all of his extended family and friends in Co Clare.”
