President leads tributes following death of former Labour TD Emmet Stagg, aged 79

President Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to former Labour TD Emmet Stagg, following his death aged 79.

Mr Stagg died on Sunday morning after a long illness.

President Higgins said Mr Stagg "embodied the spirit of the Labour Party in its best sense", describing him as a "great, courageous and brave campaigner".

"I will remember Emmet as one of my closest friends in Leinster House, he will be deeply missed," the president added.

Labour leader Ivana Bacik also extended her sympathies to Mr Stagg's family.

In a statement, Ms Bacik said he had been a great mentor to her when she first joined the party in the late 1980s, and was always "very supportive of Labour Youth within the party".

Sad news today on the death of our dear @labour colleague, comrade, mentor and friend Emmet Stagg. Thoughts and sympathies with Mary and with Emmet’s family and friends. #RIPEmmet https://t.co/X7aOoH5OEh

— Ivana Bacik (@ivanabacik) March 17, 2024

"Canvassing in Kildare with Emmet was a really positive experience – he was hugely popular in his community and consistently championed the needs of those facing inequality and disadvantage," Ms Bacik said.

"Emmet was a pillar of Labour politics, both in Leinster House, and in Kildare, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was kind and considerate, and maintained a keen interest in Labour politics even after leaving the Dáil.

"Those of us who knew him as a friend and supportive mentor over many years are particularly saddened by the news of his passing," she added.

Mr Stagg is survived by his wife Mary, and two children, Gillian and Henry.

Mr Stagg had 29 years of unbroken service as a TD, representing the constituencies of Kildare and Kildare North, from 1987 to 2016.