John Bruton: former Taoiseach has died at the age of 76

Former Taoiseach John Bruton has died at the age of 76.

The ex leader of Fine Gael was Taoiseach from 1994 until 1997 as head of the "rainbow coalition" government alongside Labour and Democratic Left.

He died in a Dublin hospital this morning (Tuesday) surrounded by his family.

A statement from the Bruton family, released by Fine Gael on Tuesday, said: "It is with deep sadness we wish to announce the death of former taoiseach John Bruton.

"He died peacefully in the Mater Private Hospital in Dublin, surrounded by his loving family, early this morning following a long illness.

"He was a good husband, a good father and a true patriot.

"We will miss him greatly.

"John is survived by his wife, Finola, son Matthew and daughters Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth, grandchildren, sons-in-law, his brother, Richard, and sister, Mary, nieces, nephews, many cousins and extended family."

Speaking in the Stormont Assembly, today, First Minister Michelle O'Neill, expressed her condolences to the family and added: "I want to pass on my condolences to the family of former taoiseach John Bruton, who we've just been notified has sadly passed away.

"To his family and friends, we send them our condolences at this very sad time."