I thought he was a decent man RIP
As a staunch Fine Gaeler, I'm saddened to hear of John Bruton's passing.
I wouldn't have had a huge respect for him in my youth, when he was Opposition leader to Albert Reynolds. I thought he was out of his depth somewhat, but I acknowledge and believe he grew into leadership and became an important Taoiseach, in a tumultuous enough time on this island and in Europe.
May he Rest in Peace
To hold a coalition government together in the 90s was no easy task - I think that’s where historians will see his strengths as a leader.
You'd wonder how the country would have turned out if he won the 1997 election? From memory, FG/Labour were viewed as fiscally conservative, whereas Bertie and FF were willing to throw the dosh around. But I don't think it can be doubted that FG/Labour managed to steady the ship and lay solid economic foundations for the future.
I could be wrong on a few of these, but his governments major achievements were launching TG4, deregulation of national radio, opening of LUAS, fiscal stability and some key moves on the North which brought about a ceasefire, although that ended. There was controversy too, clearing of FG debts, handing out of mobile phone licence, and probably one or two others.
Overall not a bad government though.
A decent man and good politician. Served his people with distinction. RIP.
He was the brightest leader we have had since Garret in the 80s IMO. RIP.
Sad news. An honourable and decent man. Well educated, confident and self assured. Like all of us he made mistakes but for the most part had the best interests of the country at heart. Rest in peace.
A decent man and one of our most honourable politicians.
Head and shoulders above our present party leaders. R.I.P. to him.
Yes may John Bruton rest now, the work is done. As regards his empathy with the position of NI unionists, that in itself was very important to smooth the way towards the Belfast or Good Friday Agreement.
rip
I remember severely disliking him and agreeing when I heard him referred to as "John the Unionist"
I'd take him a hundred times over the three self serving treasonous fxxkers we're dealing with now though.
RIP. He did no major harm.
RIP seemed like a good man!
Although I disagreed with many of his policies, I will echo a fair and decent man. RIP
RIP
On a personal level a very friendly nice man.
Did well with the Rainbow coalition and working with the EU.
Not so well with VAT on children's shoes. Wouldn't agree with his commonwealth views, but he was genuine about them.
I dont remember any corruption scandals following him around, seemed to be a decent sort. And very pro democracy and party tradition.
Think history will be kind to him.
Very sad. RIP.
He was a good politician and seemed to have the best interests of the country as party leader and Taoiseach. Current FG ministers would not be relevant compared to him anyway. RIP.
