THE TAOISEACH ENDA Kenny has paid tribute to the former Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan who passed away this morning.

Speaking at a meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council in Dublin, Enda Kenny said that Lenihan “exemplified a great sense of humanity” in his work as Minister for Children, Minister for Justice and Minister for Finance.

He added that he regarded the Fianna Fáil TD as a “friend in politics”.

He said that Lenihan “had exemplified wonderful courage” in speaking publicly about his pancreatic cancer which he had been diagnosed with in December 2009.

Kenny added that the former TD for Dublin West had carried out his public duties “in the most challenging circumstances” for any Minister for Finance and added that he was “proud to know” Lenihan who was 52.

In a statement issued to the media this afternoon, the Taoiseach added:

I was deeply saddened to learn of the untimely death of Deputy Brian Lenihan.

Throughout his political career, Brian Lenihan displayed huge commitment to public service and carried out his responsibilities with integrity and
compassion.

During his illness, which he fought with serenity, he courageously continued to fully perform his ministerial responsibilities in the most challenging and difficult circumstances.

To his mother Anne, wife Patricia, children Tom and Clare, brothers Paul, Niall and Conor, sister Anita, and to his colleagues in the Fianna Fail Party, I extend my deepest sympathy.