I am very sorry to learn of the death of my friend, former Minister and TD, David Andrews.
David was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1965 and was re-elected at every subsequent general election, until his retirement from politics in 2002. David’s was an extraordinary life of public service. He represented the Dún Laoghaire and Rathdown constituency, later becoming the Dún Laoghaire constituency, with great distinction and ability for 37 years.
David came from a family that has had an enormous influence on shaping Ireland since its independence. David followed in that tradition of public service. From his early days, as a young TD, it was clear that he was a man of principle, fearless in his views and always seeking to advance the cause of his constituency and country. He served as Chief Whip in 1970, a position he held until 1973.
In the 1990s, David served as Minister for the Marine, twice as Minister for Defence, and twice as Minister for Foreign Affairs. It was in the 1997 – 2000 period particularly, as Minister for Foreign Affairs, that David played a pivotal role in negotiation of the Good Friday Agreement. David’s contribution was significant and history will record his pivotal role in bringing peace to our country.
David was one of a generation of Irish public representatives who were big personalities with a big vision for the development of their country and who left an enormous footprint. I was lucky to have served in government with David, and saw firsthand his intelligence, his work rate and commitment to peace, along with his decisiveness, his wit and good humour.
Outside of politics, David was a barrister of repute and campaigned for a number of human rights cases, including the Birmingham Six and Guildford Four. He was warm, engaging and great company. I greatly appreciated his wisdom and advice during our conversations.
On my own behalf, and on behalf of the Fianna Fáil organisation, I offer my deepest sympathy to David’s wife, Annette, his family Barry (MEP), David, Sinead, Mary and Claire, along with the wider Andrews family.
RIP.