Ireland's Former finance minister Brian Lenihan has died.
Mr Lenihan had been battling with pancreatic cancer for more than a year as he attempted to steer the Irish economy through its deepest recession.
He was first elected to the Dail parliament in April 1996 in a by-election caused by the death of his father, Brian.
Mr Lenihan left government in February when his Fianna Fail party lost the general election.
His health had deteriorated in the last few months but he left hospital to be cared for close to his family. He died at home with his relatives at his side.
His aunt Mary O'Rourke, a former parliament member, praised her nephew's work in government.
"He always worked for his country and he worked for the best of Ireland and I suppose in the end what anybody in public life would wish to do, and that's what he did, "she told RTE Radio..
"I just feel my life has almost ended, I really do."
In a tribute to the Irish politician, Chancellor George Osborne said: "His positive approach to his illness at the same time as dealing with the difficult circumstances faced by the Irish economy was remarkable and my thoughts are with his family at this time.
"He was a patriotic Irishman doing the best for his country in difficult circumstances."
