Brian Lenihan Has Sadly Passed Away From Pancreatic Cancer at Age 52

The former Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan has sadly lost his battle with pancreatic cancer today.  Brian Lenihan had been battling cancer since December 2009, in recent weeks he had been absent from the Dáil as his condition deteriorated severely.  He died early this morning at his West Dublin home; he was surrounded by his family.

Brian is survived by his wife, circuit court judge Patricia Ryan and their two teenage children.

Mr Lenihan, 52, was first elected as a Fianna Fail TD for Dublin West in 1996 and served as Minister for Finance from 2008 until February of this year.  He was Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform from 2007 – 2008.

In January 2010, Brian confirmed that he had been diagnosed with a cancerous growth at the entrance to his pancreas, and would need intensive treatment.

He underwent intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy in June 2010 and while his treatment was gruelling, he emerged with a positive attitude.

When asked last September if his condition had improved, he said that the cancer was still there but it did not impose any immediate or clear and present danger to him.  Just last month he laughed off rumours of his demise saying “I’m Still Here.”

After another stay at the Mater Private Hospital in May, his constituency spokesman called on friends and party members to continue to show their support for Mr Lenihan.

Brian passed away this morning at his West Dublin home with his family by his side.

Our sincere thoughts and sympathies are with Brian Lenihan’s family and friends at this sad time.

Brian Lenihan, 21 May 1959 - 10 June 2011, May He Rest in Peace.