The former Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has revealed he is recovering from cancer.
The Mayo man, 71, whose late mother Eithne was from Glencolmcille, underwent a recent operation in St James’s Hospital in Dublin.
He told close friends he had tissue removed from under the arm but is confident the malignancy has been caught early.
A spokesman for the former Fine Gael leader said: “The former taoiseach had an operation to remove cancer before Christmas.
“Thankfully he is in robust good health besides and is well on the road to a full recovery.”
Mr Kenny has authorised the disclosure of his diagnosis but does not wish to provide details.
It is understood doctors have assured Mr Kenny his medical condition is under control and he has an excellent prognosis.
The keen GAA supporter was in MacHale Park in Castlebar on Saturday night to watch his home county, Mayo, take on Tyrone.