It was great sadness that we learned of the passing of former GAA President Joe McDonagh yesterday evening following a short illness.

The Galway native served as President of the Association between 1997 and 2000 and his death, at the age of 63, comes less than two weeks since the passing of his predecessor Jack Boothman who was president of the GAA from 1994 to 1997. 

The death is announced of Joe McDonagh, Uachtarán CLG 1997-2000, after a short illness. Deeply regretted by family, friends & GAA community.

- The GAA (@officialgaa) May 20, 2016

Joe McDonagh was a member of the Galway squad which famously annexed Liam MacCarthy Cup honours in 1980 and afterwards he memorably led the crowd in a rousing rendition of The West's Awake from the Hogan Stand steps.

He was a regular at right half-back during a hurling career that also saw him win a National League medal in 1975 and an All-Star in 1976.

He made 15 appearances for the Tribesmen at senior level and was captain of the team which lost the 1979 All-Ireland final to Kilkenny.

A major part of his legacy as President was pushing for the removal of Rule 21, which had banned members of the British security forces from membership of the GAA and from playing Gaelic games.

The rule was eventually dropped in 2001.

Joe McDonagh was central to one of the most memorable All Ireland speeches in GAA history, & central to the GAA family for many years. RIP

- Enda Kenny (@EndaKennyTD) May 21, 2016

GAA President Aogán Ó Fearghail has offered condolences on behalf of the Association to Joe McDonagh's family.

The current President said: "It was with great sadness that we learnt of Joe's passing last night and I know that sentiment is shared by so many throughout the wider GAA family.

"Joe was held in extremely high regard and his company was enjoyed by so many over the course of his long involvement with the GAA in so many different capacities, not least as President from 1997 to 2000.

"He and his tenure left an indelible mark on Cumann Lúthchleas Gael and his passion for our games and activities was only matched by his passion for the Irish language.

"He also had a profound interest in our international network and the further expansion of the GAA overseas.

"He will be sorely missed and I would like to offer my sympathies to his wife Peig, his family and his wide circles of friends and admirers."

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