The funeral of former Finance Minister Brian Lenihan takes place in Dublin today.
The 52-year-old, who died last Friday after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, will be laid to rest privately following a requiem mass in St Mochta’s Church, Porterstown, in the west of the city.
President Mary McAleese and Taoiseach Enda Kenny will lead mourners from the world of politics and law and the local constituency as tributes continue to flow in for the former Minister.
Thousands of people queued over the weekend and yesterday to pay their respects at Mr Lenihan’s office in Castleknock and also at Government Buildings, following a request to open a book of condolence from the Taoiseach.
The private burial will take place at St David’s Church graveyard at Kilsallaghan.
The 11am funeral mass will be celebrated by Fr Eugene Kennedy, a retired priest and close family friend, and the current parish priest of St Mochta’s, Fr John Daly.
Mr Lenihan’s coffin, draped in the Tricolour, was brought to the small chapel under military escort yesterday evening after the Defence Forces offered to support the family and Fianna Fáil party in arrangements.
The flag will be folded and presented to family members as the respected minister is laid to rest.
Ushers from Leinster House have also lent their support and dozens of Fianna Fáil TDs and Senators, current and past, will also attend.
Three large spillover areas are expected to be filled for the service including two marquees and the local community centre where the funeral will be relayed.