Taoiseach Micheál Martin leads tributes to 'gentleman' Brendan Mooney

The long-time athletics, boxing and cycling correspondent for the Irish Examiner passed away on Thursday after a short illness. 

Karen Shinkins, D.C.H. speaking to Examiner reporter Brendan Mooney. File picture: Denis Minihane.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has led a flood of tributes to Brendan Mooney, the long-time athletics, boxing and cycling correspondent for the Irish Examiner, who passed away on Thursday after a short illness. 

"I am deeply saddened at the passing of Brendan Mooney, a talented journalist and a thorough gentleman," the Taoiseach said. "A great sportsman, and brilliant professional, he understood athletes better than most and made many friends throughout the years. Brendan was a good friend, and a thorough gentleman. He had a genuine empathy for people and wonderful nature. I first got to know Brendan through my father and the boxing community in Cork. My sympathies go to his wife Ann and the entire family."