McAleese and Cowen lead tributes to Brennan
The President and the Taoiseach have been leading tributes this morning to former Government minister Seamus Brennan, who has died at the age of 60 following a short illness.
President McAleese says Mr Brennan played a major role in the building of modern Ireland and his achievements and contribution will leave a lasting mark on the country.
Brian Cowen, meanwhile, said his former Fianna Fáil colleague would be remembered as a brilliant political strategist and would be hugely missed by everyone in the party.
Elsewhere, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny says Mr Brennan brought a deep understanding and humanity to the many ministries that he held.
Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore paid a similar tribute, saying the former minister served with distinction in all the portfolios that he held.
Health Minister Mary Harney says she is deeply saddened by the death of her friend, who devoted his entire life to the betterment of his country and his community in south Dublin.
Green Party leader John Gormley also paid tribute to Mr Brennan as a totally reliable and very decent person, who was the first to make contact with the Greens about a possible coalition deal after the last election.
Elsewhere, Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has described Mr Brennan as the most courageous and visionary Transport Minister of modern times.
