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The Taoiseach has expressed his deepest sympathies to to the family of RTE racing correspondent Colm Murray following his sad passing.

Colm was the voice of Irish racing for many years and he lit up the coverage of many a racing meet with his passion and enthusiasm for the sport. I had the pleasure of being in Colm's company recently and could see he was a proud Westmeath man who brought out the best in those around him with his affability and gift for storytelling. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Anne, and daughters, Patricia and Kate, and sister, Mary. He is also a huge loss to all in RTE and my thoughts are with all who had the pleasure of knowing Colm during his lifetime.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney added:

Colm Murray was a true gentleman and a passionate supporter of horseracing and all sports. He was loved and respected by all who met him.

His passing is very sad for all who knew him in sporting circles and I know the horseracing industry in particular value the strong commitment and passion Colm showed to their sport and livelihood.

He has been both supportive and encouraging to me as a Minister on numerous occasions at horseracing events and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Anne, daughters Kate and Patricia and family and all those close to him throughout his career in RTE.

Arts Minister Jimmy Deenihan added:

It is with a deep sense of sadness and loss that I learned of the death of Colm who passed away yesterday evening. Colm's passing has come all too soon. He was a tremendous supporter of the Listowel Racing Festival and the poignancy of his passing coinciding with the opening day's racing in Galway is of itself significant of the support he provided to the racing fraternity.

Colm's reporting of a race was unique, he made the television or radio come alive, you felt as though no matter where you were hearing his commentary, you were transported to that race track for those very important final furlongs.

Colm's battle with his illness was fought bravely in public and in private. We mourn his passing now but we remember a life which contributed much to many. To his wife Ann and their daughters I offer my deepest sympathy, it was my privileged to have known him.