Statement by Taoiseach and Leader of Fine Gael, Enda Kenny TD

“I wish to convey my condolences to the family of former Louth Fine Gael TD, Brendan McGahon, who has sadly passed away.

“I had the pleasure of serving with Brendan for all of his 20 years in Dáil Éireann and shared an office with him in the 1980s. I recently visited Brendan in hospital where he bore his illness with great strength.

“Brendan was an extremely dedicated servant of the people of Louth and his beloved home-town of Dundalk. He had a long and distinguished political career, starting in 1979 when he was elected to Louth County Council. He was elected to Dáil Éireann in 1982 and re-elected at the following four elections, retiring in 2002.

“Throughout his political career, Brendan was outspoken on behalf of the people of Louth in opposition to the actions of the IRA, and he showed exceptional resolve in standing up to them.

“Brendan also had success on the sporting field. He was a talented soccer player and played for Dundalk FC in the Premier Division.

“My condolences are with Brendan’s family, including his children Robert, Conor, Adele, Keith and Jill; his brother, former Cllr. Johnny McGahon; and his nephew, Cllr. John McGahon.”