"It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of former Irish Taoiseach Dr Garret FitzGerald this morning. The Fine Gael (EPP) politician was one of Ireland's most committed Europeans," said Joseph Daul MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group.

"Dr Fitzgerald played a significant role in securing Ireland's membership of the then European Economic Community in 1972. When Fine Gael entered Government in 1973, he became Minister for Foreign Affairs, playing a leading role during Ireland's first Presidency of the EEC. The statesman went on to head, as Taoiseach, two Fine Gael led governments in the 1980s.

"Throughout his political life, Dr FitzGerald remained deeply loyal to Europe and Ireland. In his latter years, he remained a firm supporter of the European Union and campaigned on both the Nice and Lisbon Treaties. His commitment to the achievement of peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland was unlimited. His opinion on all matters was always sought and greatly respected. From an EU perspective, Dr FitzGerald made an outstanding contribution to the Union," Mr Daul continued.

"Personally, and on behalf of the 265 Members of the EPP Group in the European Parliament, I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the late Dr FitzGerald."

For further information:

Joseph DAUL MEP, Tel: +32-2-2847525
Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290
Cliona Connolly, EPP Group Press and Communications Service, Tel: +32-475-957874

Notes to Editors:
The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 265 Members.