The death has taken place after a lengthy illness of Mr David Austin who has been a director of the Jefferson Smurfit Group for almost 15 years.

Aged 62, Mr Austin was with Smurfit for nearly 30 years. He joined the group in 1969 and was divisional managing director of a number of Smurfit's divisions before becoming executive vice-president, marketing and human resources in 1983. He retired from his executive position last year.

Smurfit chairman Dr Michael Smurfit said: "David has been one of my closest friends and business colleagues for almost 30 years. I am devastated by his death and extend my deep sympathy to his wife Mo and family, both personally and on behalf of the board and his many friends in the group."

Mr Austin's remains will be removed to Monkstown church at 6pm this evening and he will be buried in Deansgrange cemetery after 11am

Mass tomorrow.