Political writer and barrister Noel Whelan has died.
He was a leading figure in the campaign to introduce same-sex marriage.
The 50-year-old passed away yesterday after a short illness.
He is survived by his wife Sinead and son, Séamus.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar paid tribute on social media, saying the country had lost a friend.
"So sad to hear that Noel Whelan has passed away," Mr Varadkar wrote on Twitter.
"We come from different party backgrounds but I feel this morning like Ireland has lost a friend.
"Such a sharp intellect. So articulate and effective on marriage equality."
So sad to hear that Noel Whelan has passed away. We come from different party backgrounds but I feel this morning like Ireland has lost a friend. Such a sharp intellect. So articulate and effective on marriage equality.
— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) July 11, 2019
Minister for Social Protection, Regina Doherty, hailed Mr Whelan as "a thorough gent."
