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Statement by the Taoiseach on the passing of Dermot Gallagher

 
I am deeply sad, as is the Government, to learn that Dermot Gallagher has died. 
Dermot Gallagher was a patriot, an outstanding public servant who embodied the best of Ireland and its people. Dermot was an intellectually-brilliant yet unassuming man. He had a rare elegance and warmth. At every stage of his career, he used his contacts and authority to do good. He showed immense humanity and compassion to those who needed it most.
A proud Irishman, he was the quintessential family man and Leitrim man. The waters of Leitrim flowed in his veins.  Dermot used to say “a shroud has no pockets”. But there is neither shroud nor pocket big enough to hold even a minuscule amount of his wisdom, decency and kindness.
Dermot Gallagher is a major loss to Irish public life. Today, Ireland is the less for his passing. I send my thoughts to his family, his friends and colleagues at this sad time.
Dermot, ár gceol thú.
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