MEMBERS OF the public have been writing to irishtimes.com to pay tribute to former taoiseach Dr Garret FitzGerald.
As of yesterday evening, more than 100 comments had been made, on themes such as his integrity, the role he played in Anglo-Irish relations, his intellectual ability and his personal warmth.
Here is a flavour of what people have been writing:
Aidan Foley– His integrity, clarity and sharp intellect will be sorely missed in the years ahead. One of the very few politicians whom one always felt was in politics for the greater good, rather than personal gain. A huge loss.
Finola OSullivan– British-Irish relations in this new century owe an enormous amount to the diplomatic leadership of Garret FitzGerald. As an Irish citizen living in England, I wept while listening on the web to the speeches live from Dublin Castle on Wednesday night, and was shocked to awaken on Thursday morning to the news of his death. Thank you for all you did for both countries, Garret, and for reminding us of the power of the pen over the sword. Maith an Fear!
Anna Hyams– A man of great intellect, which he used in the service of this country. A man the country could be proud of. He will be sorely missed.
Michael Gannon– Garret FitzGerald is a legend to my generation because of the liberal and pluralist Ireland he articulated and inspired. That Ireland has come to pass and his contribution to it, particularly through the Anglo-Irish Agreement, which was the most significant since the Treaty of 1921, laid its foundations. His intellectual contribution to Irish life is immense. Saturdays without Garret FitzGerald in The Irish Times will not be the same again. May he rest in peace.
Oisín Quinn– His energy and vigour and commitment to the public good, especially in recent years, was very inspiring. Truly one of Ireland's great citizens.
John Anthony Murphy– With regard to the death of Garret FitzGerald, may I hope he died with a smile on his face, after hearing HM the Queen start her speech in Irish. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Tony McCoy OGrady– He was the reason I met my wife. I told a member of Fine Gael – at a fundraiser – that I could never join while Liam Cosgrave was leader, but that I would join if Garret ever took over.
He did . . . I did . . . and she was a member of the branch I joined. I am deeply grateful, and told him so. When I told him that a brother of mine also met his wife in FG, he said he hoped I had joined for other reasons!