Tánaiste Simon Harris TD has paid tribute to John Mullins: "It was with shock and deep sadness that I learned of the passing of John Mullins earlier today.
“It was an honour to know John, to soldier with him in politics, to canvass with him and I always found it a joy to be in his company.
"I am especially thinking of his wife Siobhan and his two children Michael and Sarah as well as his parents Pat and Eileen.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam”.
He sought a nomination to run for Fine Gael in Cork South Central, where the party was bidding to retain the seat held by former tánaiste, Simon Coveney, but he failed to get on the ticket.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin said:
“I am deeply saddened at the passing of John Mullins, someone who made such a distinguished contribution to public life, business, sport and politics.
John was a wonderfully gregarious character who had a huge impact in Cork and across the country.
As chief executive of Bord Gáis, John made tremendous strides in the transformation of that organisation, and subsequently guided the growth of the Port of Cork.
With Amarenco Solar he was influential in advancing solar power technology in this country and internationally.
John had a particular interest in sport, with his beloved Bishopstown GAA and as director of Páirc Uí Chaoimh, and I often enjoyed great banter with him over sporting rivalries.
John fully realised his potential in public service and in business, but he could just as easily have realised his promise in politics with his deep and abiding interest and involvement with Fine Gael.
A great strategist, you would see John at all the election counts over the years.
So many people will be shocked and saddened at John’s passing at such a young age, and I offer our deepest sympathies to his wife Siobhan, his family and friends.”
