Tributes have been paid to former ceann comhairle and Fine Gael minister Seán Barrett, who has died aged 81.
Barrett served as a Fine Gael TD for Dún Laoghaire for more than 20 years, from 1981 until he announced his retirement in advance of the 2002 general election. He made a successful return to national politics in 2007, winning a seat and holding on to it until his final retirement from the Dáil in 2020.
During his time in government, he served as minister for defence and minister for the marine and had two stints as government chief whip. In a statement on Monday, Fine Gael leader and Tánaiste Simon Harris said: “Seán was known for his steady judgment, his understanding of the Dáil and his ability to navigate complex political challenges with professionalism and integrity.”
Harris said he first met Barrett during his term as ceann comhairle between 2011 and 2016. During his five years in the role, Barrett oversaw the introduction of Oireachtas TV and the revival of State-recognised bravery awards.
“I found him witty, intelligent, sincere and a man of deep convictions,“ said Harris. ”In his role as ceann comhairle, he exuded fairness, authority and a firm but measured approach in the chair.
“He was a guardian of parliamentary standards and ensured that the business of the Dáil was conducted with order and respect, during what was a tumultuous period in Irish politics following the financial crash.”
Harris said his thoughts were with Barrett’s family, including “his wife Sheila, his children, grandchildren, wider family, friends and former colleagues at this sad time”.
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, who is a Fine Gael TD in Barrett’s former constituency, said she was “deeply saddened” to learn of his passing”.
“On a personal level, Seán was enormously kind to me during my time working for Fine Gael in Leinster House, and even more so as a new Councillor and TD for our area. His advice was invaluable,” she said
“His extensive contribution to our area is evident today in the many organisations he supported, not only through his work as a public representative but also as a volunteer. When I am out canvassing, people still mention his kindness and support for the people of Dún Laoghaire, whom he represented so proudly.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said Barrett “gave distinguished service to the State – as chief whip, as ceann comhairle and as a minister”.
“He believed passionately in parliamentary democracy,” the Taoiseach said. “He was a very fair ceann comhairle and a competent, capable minister.
“He was a thorough gentleman. I enjoyed his company in Dáil Éireann – we always got on well.”