President Michael D Higgins has led the tributes to former Kerry player and manager Páidí Ó Sé who passed away this morning at his home in Kerry at the age of 57.
The eight times All-Ireland winner died suddenly at his home in Ard a’ Bothar, Ventry earlier today.
Mr Higgins said: “Páidi Ó Sé had a reputation that went far beyond his great achievements in sport and far beyond the boundaries of his own beloved country.
“It was a great contribution and I send my sympathies to him and his family and all those related to him.”
Sports Minister Michael Ring described it as a sad day for Ireland, the GAA, for Kerry and for Irish culture.
The minister said: “Páidí Ó Sé was a legend in so many ways. As a footballer, as a manager, and as an exponent of Irish language and culture, Páidí had few rivals. ”
Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin described him as a GAA giant and gentleman.
Mr Martin said: “This is a huge loss for Páidí’s family and friends in Kerry, Clare and across the country.
“When it came to football Páidí had an extraordinary talent. I personally have great memories of stirring Cork-Kerry clashes through the years. He was an iconic figure and he personified that spirit of competitive rivalry that is the hallmark of the GAA.
“Páidí was also a very warm hearted person and he made enduring friendships in sport, politics and business.”
Fine Gael Kerry TD Brendan Griffin said he had been saddened at the untimely passing of the former footballer.
He said: “Páidí really was a true legend of the game and he was someone of great charisma, both on and off the field.
“Like so many more of my generation, Páidí was a childhood hero. The Dingle peninsula, the county of Kerry and the country is in mourning. My sympathy is with those Páidí leaves behind, especially his wife and children. He will be sorely missed.”
