The death has been announced of the chairman of Rehab Seán Egan.

Mr Egan became Chairman of Rehab in May 2014, acting as Executive Chairman and Interim CEO until January of this year, and since then as Chairman, all in a voluntary capacity. 

He had suffered a stroke recently.

The charity has paid tribute to him in a statement released this evening, saying he lead the organisation through great challenges - along with a significant programme of transformation:

"Seán's contribution to Rehab has been of vital importance to the organisation. Since taking on the role of Chairman at a critical time he has led, with conviction, a significant programme of transformation and change and set the organisation on a new course.

"Under his committed leadership a new vision and progressive plan for Rehab has been developed, to secure the future sustainability of the organisation. 

"We are indebted to him for giving so generously of his time and skill, his insight, acumen and enthusiasm. His vast contribution has been essential in leading the organisation through great challenges. 

"As someone who had undertaken significant rehabilitation following a life-altering stroke some years ago Seán empathised enormously with the people who used our services and had a deep understanding of the value of Rehab's work and its impact on the lives of many thousands of people with disabilities and others who are marginalised. 

"The legacy of his important work and leadership of Rehab will be felt by the organisation for many years to come."

A PhD graduate of Trinity College Dublin, Mr Egan enjoyed a very successful career in technology, telecoms and insurance companies, most recently as Chief Executive of Aviva Ireland, before joining Rehab. 

Mr Egan is survived by his wife Morag, three daughters, son, grandchildren and extended family.