Former broadcaster Brian Farrell has died at the age of 85, RTÉ has said.

He presented numerous political programmes on RTÉ, including election and budget specials.

Mr Farrell was born in 1929, and was educated at UCD and then Harvard.

It was there he met and married his wife Marie-Therese Dillon. He was subsequently appointed an associate professor in government and political science in UCD.

He began broadcasting in 1957, initially on radio. He became known for his interviews - particularly those with politicians - and as an election correspondent.

Programmes included Broadsheet, Newsbeat, 7 Days, The Political Programme, Frontline, Today Tonight and Prime Time.

While his publications included 'Chairman or Chief' (1971), 'The Founding of Dáil Éireann' (1971), 'Seán Lemass' (1983) and 'Child Poverty in Ireland' (2000).

RTÉ Director-General Noel Curran said: "Brian Farrell was one of the most respected and talented current affairs presenters ever to appear on RTÉ. Having started out on Radio Éireann, he was there from the very beginning of Telefís Éireann in 1962."

"His incisive analysis was paired with a unique presentation style and a depth of knowledge about Irish politics that was extraordinary."

"He was also a fantastic colleague. Wise, witty, supportive but also not afraid to challenge, he was a hugely positive presence on the Current Affairs team. I consider it a privilege to have worked with him. Our thoughts are with his family," he added.