Former president's remains to be moved to Cathedral

Thousands of people are expected to attend a service for former president, Dr Patrick Hillery, at Dublin's Pro-Cathedral tonight.

Dr Hillery, who held the presidency for two terms, died on Saturday aged 84.

His remains will be brought from St Francis Hospice, Raheny, to the Cathedral at 4pm.

Members of the public will be able to pay their respects and file past his coffin after the service until 10pm.

His Funeral Mass will be held at noon tomorrow after which Taoiseach-in-waiting Brian Cowen will deliver a graveside oration.

President Mary McAleese, her husband Dr Martin McAleese, and outgoing Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will read at the Mass.

Books of Condolence opened in Dublin yesterday at The Pro Cathedral and Mansion House.

Mourners in his native Co Clare were also able to pay their tributes in books at Ennis Library, Paddy Hillery Library Miltown Malbay and the County Council HQ in Ennis.

Born in 1923, Dr Hillery qualified as a medical doctor before entering politics.

In 1951 he was persuaded to stand for Fianna Fáil and became a TD for his home county for more than 20 years.

Dr Hillery received his first Government appointment as Minister for Education in 1959, and served in a number of ministerial posts including, industry and commerce, labour and external affairs.

He served as Ireland's first European Commissioner from 1973 to 1976, when he was inaugurated as President of Ireland.