The death has taken place of Micheál Ó Domhnaill, the renowned folk and traditional musician, at the age of 54.
Mr Ó Domhnaill, who enjoyed a long career as a member of Skara Brae and later the Bothy Band, died at his home in Dublin.
Minister for Arts John O'Donoghue yesterday described the singer and guitarist as one of Ireland's most gifted and well-loved musicians.
A native of Co Meath, Mr Ó Domhnaill was famed for his musical performances and as a presenter on the first series of The Long Note on RTÉ radio.
"His contribution to the world of traditional and folk music was enormous. His passing is a great loss and he will be sadly missed," said Mr O'Donoghue who extended his deepest sympathies to the extended Ó Domhnaill family and to his sisters Tríona and Maighread who are singers.
During Mr Ó Domhnaill's career he collaborated with musicians such as Donal Lunny, Paddy Glackin, Matt Molloy and Kevin Burke, in addition to numerous performances with his two sisters.
Mr Ó Domhnaill will probably be best remembered for his work with the Bothy Band who are perceived among music fans as one of the most influential Irish traditional groups of the 1970s.