‘He fought tooth and nail for the people he loved’

Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern joined in a host of tributes to the former Independent TD, Jackie Healy-Rae, who died yesterday aged 83 following a protracted illness.

‘He fought tooth and nail for the people he loved’

The cliché, “larger than life”, was used by many people to describe the colourful politician, who represented Kerry South in the Dáil from 1997 to 2011 and was a county councillor for 30 years. He was also, in turn, a farmer, musician, hurler, publican, heavy- machinery driver, a wit, and storyteller.

Along with other independents, Mr Healy-Rae supported three Fianna Fáil-led governments and did deals with Mr Ahern in return for a package of funds for roads, farming, housing, and health issues in his constituency. One of the roads deals was reported to be worth €70m.

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