MEP Seán Kelly has paid a warm personal tribute to former Fine Gael leader John Bruton who has died, following an illness, at the age of 76.
Mr Kelly, who is the leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, said he was a man of integrity and courage.
“He called things out as they were. He had an innate diplomatic skill and was highly respected at EU level,” he remarked.
The former Taoiseach and EU Ambassador to the United States was a regular visitor to Killarney and, outside of general election campaigns, he attended several political and business briefings in Killarney.
MEP Kelly said John Bruton worked tirelessly on peace and restoration in Northern Ireland, he was a strong European and believed in the value of the EU.
“In fact, it was on the sidelines of an EU summit that John Bruton and John Major discussed the idea of a talks process that would eventually lead to the Good Friday Agreement being achieved. So, it is very poignant that his passing follows the restoration of power-sharing at Stormont, with all the hope that brings for stability and peace. He leaves behind a legacy to be proud of,” Mr Kelly stated.
“John was a friend and a confidante. I will always remember his infectious laugh and great personality. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time,” said MEP Kelly.
In 2017 Mr Bruton delivered a powerful keynote address to the Daniel O’Connell Summer School in south Kerry.
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