A native of Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick Mr Collins was educated at St. Ida’s College in Abbeyfeale and Patrician College, Ballyfin before attending University College, Dublin. While a student at UCD he was secretary of the Kevin Barry Cumann of Fianna Fáil.

He worked as a teacher before entering politics in 1965, when he was appointed assistant general secretary of Fianna Fáil.

He was first elected to the Dáil in 1967 for the constituency of Limerick West taking the seat of his late father James Collins who had been a founder member of Fianna Fáil and fought in the Irish War of Independence.

Mr Collins served as justice minister from 1977 to 1981 serving under Taoisigh Jack Lynch and Charles Haughey. He retired from the Dáil in 1997 but continued as an MEP until 2004.

Speaking on the passing of Mr Collins justice minister Jim O’Callaghan said: “I was very sorry to hear of the death of the former government minister Gerard Collins. Gerry served with distinction as Minister for Justice between 1977 to 1981 and 1987 to 1989. He was a fearless Minister for Justice during very difficult times.

“I extend my condolences to his family and his many friends.”