The Taoiseach says he is "devastated" at the sudden passing of Minister Shane McEntee.

The 56-year-old died suddenly this morning.

Enda Kenny says Shane McEntee was a loyal friend and his thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very sad time.

Mr. McEntee was first elected to the Dáil in 2005 in a by-election to replace the former Taoiseach John Bruton on his appointment as Ambassador to the United States.

He was re-elected in 2007 and 2011 in Meath-East and was appointed Minister of State with responsibility for Food, Food Safety and Horticulture.

The father-of-3 was born in Nobber in Co. Meath and lived in Castletown Kilpatrick.

His 56th birthday was just 2 days ago.

Before entering politics Shane was a farmer and agriculture sales rep and ran a pub.

He was involved in numerous voluntary organisations, particular the GAA and trained a number of football teams - including the Meath Minors and had success at county level on 6 occasions.

His death was announced this afternoon in a brief statement from the government saying thoughts and prayers are with his family at this deeply sad time.

Tributes paid to Fine Gael TD

Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore says Shane McEntee was a passionate advocate for his Meath-East constituents and has extended his sympathies to his family and to the Fine Gael party.

Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams has also conveyed his condolences to Deputy McEntee's family, friends and colleagues.

The Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney says he is shocked and deeply saddened by the death of Shane McEntee.

In a statement he says his thoughts and prayers are with the Junior Agriculture Minister's wife and family.

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) is also paying tribute to Deputy McEntee with President John Bryan saying he is "shocked beyond belief".

Meanwhile Fianna Fáil leader Mícheal Martin has called the Fine Gael TD a "true gentleman" who "commanded the genuine affection and respect of people on all sides of the House".