Tributes have been paid to Austin Deasy, the former Minister for Agriculture, who passed away at the weekend aged 80.
Mr. Deasy, a Waterford native and TD, served as Minister for Agriculture between 1982 and 1987.
He also served as a public representative in his native Waterford for over 20 years, until his retirement in 2002.
He died at University Hospital Waterford following a short illness.
His funeral was attended by hundreds, who turned out to pay their respects to the former Fine Gael minister.
Current Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed was among those who paid tribute to Mr Deasy.
“I’m saddened to have learned of the passing of my former colleague, and one of my predecessors as Minister for Agriculture, Austin Deasy,” said Minister Creed.
“Austin was a significant presence in Dáil Éireann during my early career as a TD, and I always admired his robust forthright approach to politics.
“He will be remembered fondly not only in his native Waterford but amongst the agricultural community across the country.
“My sympathies go to his family, particularly his son, our friend and colleague John. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Mr Deasy is survived by his wife Kathleen and his children John, Sally, Jane and Jamie.
