President of the Law Society of Ireland, Barry MacCarthy, said, “John Bruton dedicated much of his life to public service in Ireland, the European Union, and globally. His decades-long career was as varied as the times in which he served, including as Taoiseach, where he presided over an Irish EU Presidency, several ministerial roles, most notably Minister for Finance and EU Ambassador to the United States. The Law Society thanks Mr Bruton for his commitment to public service, democracy, and peace.

He played a key role in the Northern Ireland Peace Process, having worked with his UK counterparts to deliver the framework for peace talks that would become a significant milestone on the path towards the Good Friday Agreement. He recognised that peace could only be achieved when all sides were represented at the negotiation table. His commitment to building cross-community relations on these islands and his continued dedication to lasting peace and reconciliation later in life are testament to his integrity as a life-long public servant.

The Law Society is also grateful to Mr Bruton for his contribution to establishing Ireland for Law and his commitment and leadership in his role as Chairman.

Our condolences are with Mr Bruton's wife Finola, son Matthew, daughters Juliana, Emily and Mary-Elizabeth and his wider family.”

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