Tributes have been paid to the late Fine Gael TD and Minister Séan Barrett, who passed away on Monday.
Leading the tributes, Tánaiste Simon Harris said, “on behalf of Fine Gael, I wish to express our deepest sympathy and profound sadness at the passing of our friend and colleague, former Ceann Comhairle, Minister, TD, Councillor and Chairman of Dublin County Council, Seán Barrett.”
The Tánaiste noted “Seán was a distinguished parliamentarian who dedicated much of his life to public service, serving the people of Dún Laoghaire over several decades. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1981 and served nearly two-decades before returning to national politics again in 2007 until his retirement from the Dáil in 2020. He was a diligent and committed public representative who was grounded in his community.”
Barrett held senior responsibilities in government, including serving as Minister for Defence and Minister for the Marine, as well as Government Chief Whip in the Rainbow Coalition between 1994 and 1997, while also serving as Government Chief Whip between 1982 and 1986.
“In each of these roles Seán was known for his steady judgement, his understanding of the Dáil, and his ability to navigate complex political challenges with professionalism and integrity,” the Tánaiste said.
In 2011, Seán was elected Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann, with the Tánaiste sayiing “it was during this period that I, as a first-time TD, got to know him best.”
“I found him witty, intelligent, sincere, and a man of deep convictions. In his role as Ceann Comhairle he exuded fairness, authority, and a firm but measured approach in the Chair.”
“He was a guardian of parliamentary standards and ensured that the business of the Dáil was conducted with order and respect, during what was a tumultuous period in Irish politics following the financial crash. As Ceann Comhairle, he also oversaw the launch of the official Oireachtas TV channel, having identified the need for increased public access to the Oireachtas so that they could inform themselves of its work. He believed television to be the best way for people to see for themselves what is happening in their national parliament. It is his proud and enduring legacy.”
The Tánaiste said, “Seán was a loyal member of Fine Gael, and his contribution to the party over many years was substantial. He was good company and someone proudly Fine Gael, proud of the country and its institutions.”
“Our thoughts are with his wife Sheila, his children, grandchildren, wider family, friends, and former colleagues at this sad time.”
Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy has expressed her condolences, saying “on behalf of the Houses of the Oireachtas, I pass on my heartfelt condolences to the Barrett family – his wife Sheila, his children, his grandchildren and all those who had the honour of knowing Sean.”
Murphy said, “Seán’s impressive portfolio of roles is emblematic of his commitment to public service life and values. Serving with fairness and distinction, he will be remembered by his colleagues for his kindness and his contribution to our democracy.”