Former Taoiseach John Bruton passed away on February 6, 2024 at age 76 following a short illness.
Born in Dunboyne Co. Meath on February 18, 1947, Bruton served as Taoiseach from 1994-1997 and as Leader of Fine Gael from 1990-2001.
Bruton graduated from University College Dublin with a Bachelor of Arts degree and qualified as a barrister from King’s Inn in Dublin.
He was the youngest Taoiseach to date, being only 47 when he was elected. Bruton influenced significant political changes both in Ireland and abroad during his time in office.
Bruton’s most recognised achievement as Taoiseach was the removal of the divorce ban. The 15th amendment referendum took place on November 24, 1995 and was signed into law on the June 17, 1996. This law removed the constitutional ban on divorce and permitted the termination of marriages.
Bruton headed the ‘Rainbow Coalition’ that comprised Fine Gael, the Labour Party and the Democratic Left. This coalition was the only one in Irish history that a coalition comprised of different parties was formed in the same Dáil term.
Bruton is credited also with the framework document he negotiated with UK Prime Minister John Major (1990-1997). Such document was the foundation for the forming of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
Bruton also served as EU ambassador to the US from 2004-2009. This role meant he was meeting with US presidents and business leaders in over 20 states working to boost the US economy. Bruton sought to improve EU/US relationships in matters relating to trade, health, the environment and humanitarian issues.
Bruton made waves in the economy as during his time as Taoiseach the economy grew at a rate of 8.7% peaking at 11.1%.
Bruton’s legacy is felt in many respects in Ireland and abroad.