Hundreds in funeral tribute to Sylvie Barrett

Hundreds of mourners yesterday heard warm tributes paid to former Fianna Fáil Minister and MEP Mr Sylvie Barrett, who died on Wednesday.

Giving a graveside oration at the John the Baptist church in the Co Clare village of Ballyea, former Fianna Fáil Minister Mr Gene Fitzgerald said he was saddened by the death of "an outstanding friend and colleague".

Recalling their time in government together, Mr Fitzgerald said: "Sylvie took me under his wing. We never once had a word of difference and he was certainly a wonderful friend."

Earlier, Mr Barrett's brother Frank told the congregation that Sylvie was born on the same day that Fianna Fáil was formed in May 1926 and was destined for a life in politics. Mr Barrett recalled the tragedy of himself, Sylvie and their sisters losing their parents while very young and the wonderful back-up they had, with each of the four children going to four different families.

Mr Barrett said that Sylvie went to the Costellos of Kilmorane and had tremendous love for that family. He said tragedy struck again in December 1997 when Sylvie suffered a stroke. "He lost his power to speak and that was very frustrating for Sylvie."

Chief celebrant Father Willie Teahon told the congregation: "Sylvie was ambitious and successful, dedicated and efficient, respected and admired, and he endeavoured to help everybody whatever their problems or allegiances."

Former colleagues in the congregation included Mr Des O'Malley TD and former Fianna Fáil Minister Mr John Wilson. Outgoing Fianna Fáil TDs Mr Tony Killeen and Mr Brendan Daly joined a guard of honour outside the church, while Arts and Heritage Minister Ms Síle de Valera was also in attendance.

The President, Ms McAleese, was represented by Comdt Gerald O'Connor, and the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, was represented by Capt Ger O'Grady.

First elected a Fianna Fáil TD in 1968, Mr Barrett was Minister for Local Government in the 1977 government and is remembered as the minister who gave full driving licences to provisional drivers.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, sons Frank, Joe, Syl and Tom, brother Frank and sisters, Sister Anna and Sister Gertrude.