The Taoiseach has led tributes to former Fianna Fail TD Bobby Aylward, who died at the age of 67.
He represented Carlow-Kilkenny from 2007 to 2011, and again from 2015 to 2020, when he lost his seat in the most recent General Election.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin said he was 'deeply saddened' to learn to the death of his 'very good friend', who had been battling illness.
I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of my very good friend Bobby Aylward. Bobby was a deeply committed public representative.
He loved his people and they clearly loved him. He loved his county, his country and his Party and left his mark on each.https://t.co/6jwGUR5k24 pic.twitter.com/2v4mQ3jAg4— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) July 14, 2022
"Bobby loved his people and they clearly loved him. He loved his county, his country and his Party and left his mark on each. Bobby was passionate about agriculture and community and rural development."
