Tributes paid to Brian Lenihan, who died overnight

Former Finance MInister Brian Lenihan has died at the age of 52. He had been battling pancreatic cancer since 2009 and passed away overnight.

Mr Lenihan's diagnosis came in the midst of the financial crisis. He underwent intensive treatment for the disease and continued in office until the election in February of this year.

He fought and won the fourth seat in Dublin West at that election, but spent little time in the 31st Dáil as he underwent tratment again to battle the cancer.

The Dublin TD turned 52 last month.

Mr Lenihan's rise to the most powerful Ministry in Government was swift. He had only served as Minister for Children and Minister for Justice before taking over in Finance when Brian Cowen became Taoiseach.

He was first elected to the Dáil parliament in April 1996 in a by-election caused by the death of his father, Brian.

One of the most memorable announcements he made, just months into his term, was to announce the bank guarantee in September 2008.

Inititially he won praise and support at home and across Europe for his actions on tackling the economic crisis, but as the crisis continued and worsened he fell out of favour with many.

When Brian Cowen stepped down as Fianna Fáil leader earlier this year, Mr Lenihan contested the leadership election, coming third.

His death brings an end to a family dynasty in national politics. His father had served as Tánaiste and was a TD until his death in 1995, while his brother Conor and aunt Mary O'Rourke lost their seats at the last election.

Tributes have begun to come in - we will bring you some of these shortly.