Simon Harris describes former Heinz chief executive and chairman as ‘a giant of sport, business and media’
In a statement, the President spoke of Mr O’Reilly’s innovation in “so many aspects of Irish life” and described him as a man of “great personal charm”.
“The innovation that was part of all of his life extended from the application of science and technology, sport, the labyrinthine nature of commerce and the ever tumultuous space that constituted newspaper ownership at home and abroad, to what was a personal commitment to staying with what he saw as a symbolic Irish activity in Waterford Crystal,” the President continued.“His life was, by any measure, a full one and he will be missed by all of those who knew him.
“As well as his extraordinary philanthropic vision which was best evidenced by the establishment of the Ireland Funds at a dark time in this island’s history. “He was a trailblazer who aimed big on the international business scene. Through his work in the UK, US and Ireland he forged a path that many other international business figures from Ireland would follow,” Mr Harris said.
Mr Harris added: “Tony O’Reilly was a giant and his passing will be felt by the many people he encountered in his long life. My thoughts are especially with his children and grandchildren at this sad time.”
Michael-D-Higgins Simon-Harris
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
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