Former President Dr Patrick J. Hillery was among those who paid tribute yesterday to the late Mr Jack Lynch.
The former European Commissioner who served in several cabinets with the Mr Lynch described him as a man who had great charisma and a great presence. "Something emanated from him that made you feel good about him and good about yourself if you were near him. The public in general felt that," he said.
Dr Hillery said the former Taoiseach was admired immensely by Mr Eamon de Valera and that Mr Sean Lemass had exceptional faith in him. He was also a hero throughout the State as a result of his feats on the sports field.
He said it was very lucky for the Republic when Mr Lynch entered politics, something he did reluctantly because he had a very happy marriage. "He didn't want to go into a situation that took him away from that and the private life which he loved," he said.
Referring to the period of the arms trial, he said Mr Lynch suffered terribly at this time. "He lost a half stone, maybe even a stone weight, in one week. I don't think any other man would have had the physical strength to deal with what he was dealing with at that time. We were lucky we had him there," he added.
"His head was clear about what he should do and regardless of any consequences to himself politically he went ahead and did what he should do. He was powerfully strong. The situation was so severe but he carried us through that," Dr Hillery continued.
A number of former Taoisigh also paid tribute to Mr Lynch. Mr Liam Cosgrave described Mr Lynch as a gentleman. "At one time he was the most popular politician in the country since O'Connell," he said.
"Vera joins me in extending sympathy to his wife Mairin," he added.
Former Taoiseach Dr Garret FitzGerald, who in opposition faced him across the Dail chamber, said Mr Lynch was a unique politician who commanded the respect and affection of all who knew him. He was also an impossible person to oppose.
"He was indeed a public servant in the truest sense and he served the Irish people especially well by his skilful handling of the arms crisis in May 1970," he said.
"His modesty and self-deprecation belied a remarkable political skill," he added.
Former Taoiseach Mr Albert Reynolds referred to the incredible popularity of Mr Lynch. He felt that if he had not resigned, nobody in the party would ever have put down a motion seeking to dethrone him.
"I will remember him as a very caring, thoughtful leader that we could all look up to; a man who was gentle in many ways but at the same time, when toughness was needed, toughness was always forthcoming," he said.