Seamus Brennan: A Life in Government

This unique and timely book is a chronicle of the unrivalled political life of the late Seamus Brennan who, during a period of over 21 years (1987-2008), served as a Government minister in nine different departments. It tells the human and personal inside story of a life in Government under Charles Haughey, Albert Reynolds and Bertie Ahern - the challenges, the opportunities, the difficulties, the personalities, the thoughts and the political battles.

Author Frank Lahiffe worked closely with Seamus Brennan as a Government adviser throughout the 21 years, having been appointed as his adviser by successive Governments in a record which is unique regarding time served as well as the number of departments. The book draws on the many conversations Frank and Seamus had, and includes personal records, media commentary and published accounts, along with personal recollections from a number of close friends and colleagues who shared the political life of Seamus Brennan while he was serving the people of Ireland, his constituency of Dublin South and his political party, Fianna Fail.

With a large number of photographs, some of which have never before been published, including ones from Seamus's childhood and early life, this is an affectionate portrait of a man hailed by friend and foe as a "master politician". As Shane Coleman of the Sunday Tribune said of Seamus Brennan, "Ireland was lucky to have such a man - talented, hard-working and honourable - this country deserves more politicians like Seamus Brennan".