Tributes have been paid to former Fine Gael TD, senator and county councillor John Connor, who died yesterday in a single-vehicle crash.
The incident occurred at around 2pm in Frenchpark, Co Rosscommon.
Mr Connor, who was travelling alone, was taken to Sligo University Hospital, but was pronounced dead a short time later.
In a statement, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar he was “deeply shocked” over Mr Connor’s death.
He said: “John had an unwavering commitment to the people of his area and brought a considerable expertise to politics at local and national level.
“He had a keen intellect and was well versed in international affairs, but always had his finger on the pulse of local matters.
“He was very popular among his colleagues in Fine Gael and I know provided good counsel to a number of younger public representatives, who were grateful for his advice and time.”
Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim Frank Feighan said that Mr Connor was “a man of huge integrity, a great orator, political wisdom, good company and a great friend”.
Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway Denis Naughten said that he “learned a lot from John over our years in Fine Gael”.
“He was someone who cared passionately for rural Ireland. As an orator John was the true successor to his neighbour James Dillon,” Mr Naughten added.
Gardaí are appealing to any witnesses or any road users with video footage (including dash cam) to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094 9621630, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
