Disability rights campaigner Donal Toolan has died aged 50 following a short illness.

He was also a journalist and actor and became the first person with a disability to be nominated to the Council of State in 1991.

He also presented RTÉ Radio 1 show Not So Different and was founder and director of the Forum of People with Disabilities.

President Michael D Higgins described Toolan, originally from Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, as “a deeply committed advocate for legislation on disability rights”.

“Donal Toolan had a rare skill to establish a rapport with all those with whom he dealt. As a journalist, actor and campaigner he made a contribution to Irish public life that was of immense value,” said Mr Higgins.

“He will be missed in particular by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. Sabina and I express our condolences to his family, colleagues and wide circle of friends.”

Mr. Toolan’s remains will repose at St. Matthew’s Church, Irishtown, Dublin this evening from 5.30 until 8 O’clock.

His remains will then repose tomorrow evening at Donnellan’s Funeral Home, Clare Street, Ballyhaunis from 5 o’clock with removal at 7 o’clock to logboy church,

Funeral mass will then take place on Thursday at 12 noon followd by burial in Ballyhaunis cemetery.