David Ford said: “This is a tragic loss for both the Lenihan family and for the island of Ireland as Brian was both a gentleman and someone who worked extremely hard for everyone. Brian was a great political thinker and was also a very popular person.
“He demonstrated so much courage, strength and dignity in his battle with cancer and he never let his health prevent him from giving his all in everything he did.
“It is extremely sad that such a talented individual with so much still to give in terms of public service has been lost.”
ENDS