The former Irish taoiseach John Bruton has died aged 76 following a long illness, his family have said.

Bruton served as Taoiseach from 1994 until 1997.

In a statement, his family said: "It is with deep sadness we wish to announce the death of former Taoiseach John Bruton.

"He died peacefully in the Mater Private Hospital in Dublin, surrounded by his loving family, early this morning following a long illness.

"He was a good husband, a good father and a true patriot.

"We will miss him greatly."