Former Government minister Bobby Molloy has died, aged 80.

Mr Molloy was a founding member of the Progressive Democrats, and served as a TD for Galway West until his retirement in 2002.

His political career spanned 37 years and he was originally elected as a Fianna Fáil TD in 1965.

During his time in politics, he served as minister for local Government, minister for defence and minister for energy.

He is survived by his wife Phyllis, daughters Sorcha and Sinead and sons Donnacha and Dara.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny said: “I have noted with regret the death of Bobby Molloy.

“Bobby gave a long and dedicated service in many Ministries and he was always a tireless campaigner for his native Galway.

“I got to know Bobby well during his time in the Dáil and I extend my deepest sympathy to his wife Phyllis and to their family.”

President Michael D Higgins said: “Throughout his career, he gave excellent service and his name is recalled with great affection throughout the constituency, which contains Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht, the Aran Islands and Inishbofin.”