Cowen pays tribute to late Thomas Flatley

Taoiseach Brian Cowen has paid tribute to Irish-American billionaire Thomas Flatley, who has died at the age of 76.

The Mayo-born entrepreneur was instrumental in setting up two visa schemes for Irish people wishing to live in the US.

He was also a founding member of the Ireland Fund, which invested in peace initiatives in the North and the Republic.

Mr Cowen says he was an inspiration to countless Irish emigrants and demonstrated courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.