A minute's silence was observed in the Dáil yesterday in tribute to the former political and assistant editor of The Irish Times, Dick Walsh, who died on Tuesday.
Mr Walsh was described as "arguably the finest political reporter and commentator of his generation" by Labour leader Mr Pat Rabbitte.
"Many endured his lash as a critic and columnist, but he was never less than straightforward and honest, and a man of fierce independence."
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, described him as a man of "independent mind and deep convictions, dedicated in the pursuit of his craft, and with strongly-held views about Irish journalism".
The Fine Gael leader, Mr Enda Kenny, said it was appropriate for the Dáil to note the "extent and range of his (Mr Walsh's) public service in his duty as an objective journalist".
The quality and consistency of his writing was "a yardstick by which many others measured their views", according to the Green Party leader, Mr Trevor Sargent.