President leads tributes to RTE star Liam Ó Murchú

Famed for his dedication to the Irish language, the Corkman served as editor of Irish language programmes and later Deputy Director General at RTÉ.

However, he is best remembered as presenter of bilingual variety show 'Trom agus Éadrom', for which he won a Jacob's Award.

Following the announcement of his death yesterday, Mr Higgins said he was "greatly saddened" to hear of the passing of the broadcaster.

"Throughout his career Liam worked tirelessly to promote the Irish language both in front of and behind the camera," he said.

"What set him apart in the promotion of the language was his belief that the language belonged to everyone and he displayed this inclusive approach as presenter of 'Trom agus Éadrom'.

"He will be remembered by his former colleagues in the media and broadcast sector as a consummate professional who was full of warmth and vitality.

"Sabina and I express our deepest sympathies to his eight children, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his extended family and his friends."

Ó Murchú studied at UCC and acted as law adviser to long-serving Fianna Fail minister Sean MacEntee and then Charles Haughey before joining RTÉ in 1964. He left RTÉ in 1988 to set up a production company.

He also penned a number of books including 'Black Cat's Tales' and 'Black Cat in the Window'.

He was predeceased by his wife Margaret and is survived by eight children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.