Fianna Fáil TD for Limerick City Willie O’Dea has paid tribute to TV and Radio broadcaster Terry Wogan, who has passed away.  He has described him as a true gentleman and consummate professional who notwithstanding his success, here in Ireland and in the UK, never forgot his Limerick roots.

Deputy O’Dea commented, “I was very sad to learn of the passing of Terry Wogan this morning.  Terry was one of the most charming and witty people I have ever met.  Vastly intelligent but extremely grounded, it is easy to see how he was welcomed into millions of homes across the UK and Ireland through his TV and radio shows.

“Terry is an inspiration to people right across the country, growing up on the Ennis road in Limerick, his hard work, determination and infectious energy saw him securing a job in RTE before heading to London, where he became one of the BBCs most successful and best loved stars.  His TV and radio audiences were in the millions – a testament to the regard and respect in which he was held.

“Despite his tremendous success, Terry never forgot his roots.  He regularly spoke about Limerick and made several trips home and received the Freedom of Limerick in 2007.  He was the quintessential gentleman and consummate professional, both on and off the air.  He campaigned tirelessly for a number of charity groups, and was the face of Children in Need in the UK where he was inaugurated as “Life President” in 2010.

“He is a huge loss and will be missed by millions, both here and abroad.  Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis”.