FG pay tribute to late former Dublin mayor

Fine Gael today paid tribute to former TD Joe Doyle who died after a long illness.

The 73-year-old, once Lord Mayor of Dublin, died at Blackrock Hospice yesterday.

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said Mr Doyle was an outstanding public representative for the people of Dublin South-East and an excellent parliamentarian.

“Joe was a Christian in every sense of the word and I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his wife Peggy and all his family at this sad and difficult time for them,” said Mr Kenny.

“Joe was a politician who was completely dedicated to the mandate assigned to him by the electorate.

Mr Doyle was first elected to Dublin City Council in 1979 and was Lord Mayor of Dublin between 1998 and 1999.

He also served two Dáil terms, from 1982 to 1987 and 1989 to 1992, and two terms in the Seanad, from 1987 to 1989 and 1992 to 2002.

Mr Kenny said Mr Doyle epitomised all that was good in Irish politics.

“His contribution to parliamentary debate was both highly valued and in keeping with the realities of the day,” added Mr Kenny.

“Joe had a deep sense of loyalty to those with whom he served as a public representative and was always fully in tune with the needs and concerns of his constituents.”