"I am very saddened to learn today of the passing of Sylvia Meehan, one of the pioneers promoting equality for women and for older people in Ireland.

"An inspiring role model and a campaigner for equality when it was far from fashionable, she has been hugely influential across a long career which spanned teaching, public service as the first Chair of the Employment Equality Agency, and advocacy.

"We take inspiration from her example as we continue to work for full gender equality.

"On behalf of Minister Flanagan and on my own behalf, I extend our deepest sympathies to Sylvia’s family and friends."