Enda Kenny paid tribute to Shane McEntee

The Government has moved the writ for the Meath East by-election. It will take place on Wednesday 27th March to fill the vacancy left by the death of Shane McEntee, the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny paid tribute to Minister McEntee when moving the writ just before 6pm this evening. He highlighted his energy, enthusiasm and sincerity since his election in a famous by-election in March 2005.

His commitment to Meath was highlighed by the unparalleled sympathy and great outpouring at his passing. The Taoiseach highlighted his work with the Department of Agriculture and working for pyrite home owners.

His absense was still felt in the house, by his Fine Gael family, and by all, the Taoiseach said.

He was moving the writ as part of the Government's commitment not to leave seats vacant for over six months.

The Tanaiste, Eamon Gilmore called for the "politics of decency" to be observed during the campaign.

Fianna Fail leader Michael Martin and Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams both regretted that the by-election had to be held in the circumstances that it was, while Catherine Murphy, who won a by-election on the same day as Shane McEntee in 2005, spoke on behalf of the Independents.