Former taoiseach John Bruton has died aged 76.

Mr Bruton was Taoiseach from 1994 until 1997.

In a family statement, it was announced that he “died peacefully in the Mater Private Hospital in Dublin, surrounded by his loving family, early this morning following a long illness”.

“He was a good husband, a good father and a true patriot,” the statement added.

“We will miss him greatly.

“John is survived by his wife, Finola, son Matthew and daughters; Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth, grandchildren, sons-in-law, his brother, Richard and sister, Mary, nieces, nephews, many cousins and extended family.”

Mr Bruton was leader of Fine Gael from 1990 to January 2001.

In 2002 he was re-elected to the Dail – the lower house of the Irish parliament – until he resigned his seat two years later.

He was then appointed the EU Ambassador to the United States, which he did until 2009.

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‘Peacemaker and politician’

Leading tributes to Mr Bruton, Maria Walsh, Irish politician and MEP for the Midlands-North-West, wrote on X: “Very saddened to learn of John Bruton’s death, peacemaker & politician of high regard.

“His legacy of public service will live on beyond us, history will keep his work alive, peace is his impact. Condolences to his family, friends, colleagues.”

Public health minister and Fine Gael politician, Hildegarde Naughton, added: “Very sorry to hear about the death of John Bruton. Taoiseach, European Union Ambassador to the United States of America and a TD for 35 years. A true statesman.”

Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill also sent condolences to Mr Bruton’s family while speaking in the Assembly.

“I want to pass on my condolences to the family of former taoiseach John Bruton, who we’ve just been notified has sadly passed away,” she said.

“To his family and friends, we send them our condolences at this very sad time.”

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