'Mitchell was a most unselfish politician': Fitzgerald

Former Fine Gael Taoiseach Dr Garret Fitzgerald has paid tribute to the late Jim Mitchell, describing him as a "most unselfish politician".

Dr Fitzgerald also said those who now enjoy cheap airline flights across Europe can thank Mr Mitchell.

"He was the person who proposed to me that Ryanair should be licensed to compete with Aer Lingus on routes across the Irish Sea, so he is responsible for the development of low-cost air transport in Europe."

A fellow former leader of the party, John Bruton, added his voice to praise of the late Mr Mitchell.

"He helped bring about the establishment of An Post, and Telecom Éireann as independent entities, enabling Ireland to participate so successfully in the information revolution that occurred later," he said.

"He also authored a document on the reform of the Dáil entitled 'A Democratic Revolution' which set out a programme of action to make accountability a reality in Irish political life."

Enda Kenny's predecessor as leader of the party, Michael Noonan, extended sympathy to Mr Mitchell's family.