Former Finance Minister Brian Lenihan dies aged 52

Sceala Philosopher Location: Navan

Only 52 years old, terrible how cancer takes people so easily. When it is found too late or certain types of cancer, there is no cure for some people. Whatever we may think about his skill in politics, he certainly faced up to Cancer with dignity and positivity.

Former Finance Minister Brian Lenihan dies
The former Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan, has died at the age of 52.
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Mr Lenihan, who was the deputy leader of Fianna Fáil, was diagnosed with cancer 18 months ago.
Brian Lenihan had a strong family tradition in Fianna Fáil. His father, Brian senior, was a leading figure in the party for many years, while his grandfather, aunt and brother were also Fianna Fáil TDs.
A barrister, Mr Lenihan was elected to the Dáil in 1996 for Dublin West in the by-election caused by the death of his father:
He was recognised as a talented TD, but promotion came slowly under Bertie Ahern's leadership. After a spell as Minister for Children he finally became a full member of Cabinet as Minister for Justice in 2007.

Less than a year later, new Taoiseach Brian Cowen appointed him Minister for Finance. As he famously pointed out at the time, he had the 'misfortune' to take up the post just as the building boom was coming to a shuddering end.

That economic turnaround, coupled with the collapse of Lehman Brothers in the US, threatened Irish banks. After a tense night of meetings in Government Buildings in September 2008 the Government guaranteed €400 billion of loans and deposits for Irish financial institutions.

Later, NAMA was set up to absorb property loans, most banks were effectively nationalised, and a series of tough budgets were introduced, cutting spending and raising taxes.

In January 2010, it was confirmed that he was suffering from cancer, but he continued on in his job.

He unsuccessfully contested the Fianna Fáil leadership after Brian Cowmen's resignation, and was the only Fianna Fáil TD elected in Dublin in February's general election.

Since then, he has been deputy leader of the party as well as spokesman on finance - but in recent weeks his health again deteriorated.

Mr Lenihan died in the early hours of the morning at his house in west Dublin. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, their two children, his mother, and three brothers and one sister.

Rehn saddened by Lenihan's death

EU economic affairs commissioner Olli Rehn said he was saddened to hear of the death of former Finance Minister Brian Lenihan.

'Brian displayed great personal courage, strength and dedication to the public good, during a period of exceptional economic challenge in the life of Ireland and Europe,' he said.

'Brian's extraordinary personal and professional contribution, have ensured that he is and will always be held in the highest esteem by those of us who worked with him in Europe. In placing his duty to the nation above his personal difficulties, Brian Lenihan has provided us with an outstanding example of public service,' he added.

Former British Chancellor Alastair Darling said he was deeply saddened by Brian Lenihan's death. He said he had enjoyed working with Mr. Lenihan and that his thoughts were with his family.

IBEC director general Danny McCoy said Mr Lenihan worked tirelessly at getting the economy back onto a sustainable footing at a time of unprecedented economic crisis. 'Brian Lenihan's passion, energy, and intellect were clear to all those who had dealings with him and are a testimony to his deep dedication to public service,' he added.

Irish Forums Message Discussion :: Former Finance Minister Brian Lenihan dies aged 52

Former Finance Minister Brian Lenihan dies aged 52