“I am greatly saddened by Trevor Sargent’s decision to resign as Minister of State.
“There is nobody in Leinster House – or in Irish politics generally – whom I admire more than Trevor. He has brought a unique mix of ability and talent, decency and honesty to Irish public life.
“Trevor’s departure is all the more difficult because he is more than just a colleague; he is a trusted friend and confidant.
“I note that in tendering his resignation he has acted promptly and without any self-interest. That is totally in keeping with his approach to politics and the contribution he has made across the past four decades.
“Trevor will continue to serve the people of Dublin North as their TD with the same total dedication he has shown since June 1992.
“He will be missed from the Green Party team in Government, but he will continue to work closely with his parliamentary party colleagues.”