Former Taoiseach, Mayo deputy Enda Kenny has in a statement paid tribute to the late Liam Cosgrove, former Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach who died yesterday aged 97.

He says Liam Cosgrave’s most striking quality was his unshakeable conviction, whether to his deep Catholic faith, or to preserving the democratic integrity and security of the State.

Enda Kenny describes Liam Cosgrave as a man of great loyalty, old fashioned courtesy, and personal warmth who always had a great sense of humour.

Mr Kenny said he had the honour to serve under his leadership and to learn from him.

“Liam Cosgrove became a TD at the bleakest time in Fine Gael’s history when many forecast its demise”, yet , he said,  “his persistence and belief saw him steer the party back to recovery and Government”.

Enda Kenny concludes that one of Liam Cosgrove’s  most touching memories was the phone call from him on the night of his own election as Taoiseach in  2011: “You have made an old man very happy,”