The bishop of his home diocese pays tribute to Albert Reynolds
Bishop Francis Duffy
I extend my prayerful sympathies to the family of Albert Reynolds, former Taoiseach, Cabinet Minister and Dáil Deputy for Longford/Westmeath. Albert Reynolds will be remembered locally as a committed and sensitive politician who made a real difference to the lives of his constituents in our community and economy.
As a talented politician Mr Reynolds played a significant role in the political life of this country. Nationally and internationally he will be remembered as a major player in bringing peace to this island. This achievement was embodied in the Downing Street Declaration of December 1993, which paved the way for the first IRA ceasefire of August 31 1994.
This success is a shining example of commitment to the common good and dedication to the long sought and precious goal of securing peace in Ireland.
We remember in our prayers his wife Kathleen, his two sons and five daughters and family members. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Bishop Francis Duffy is Bishop of Ardagh & Clonmacnois.