James Heffernan (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I was not going to say much about the Seanad referendum because it will be played out over the next couple of weeks. We all know that the argument put forward by the abolitionists is absolutely flawed. It is up to each and every Member of this House to go out in the highways and byways to put that message across to the people because the battle is not going to be won in here.

I wish to offer my sincere sympathy and deepest condolences to the family of the former Minister, Michael J. Noonan, from Bruff, County Limerick. My thoughts are with his widow and children, as well as with his many friends and relations, at what is a sad and difficult time for them. It is also a sad time for many people in south and east Limerick, particularly the communities of Bruff, Grange, Meanus and Lough Gur.

Michael J. Noonan was an absolute gentleman. He bore his fight against a long illness with dignity and true grace that was characteristic of the man. Anyone, in either House of the Oireachtas, who came across Michael J. Noonan and knew him during his 30 years in public life, would concur with those sentiments. Indeed, when I returned from Australia in 2007 to stand in that year's general election, he was one of the first people I called to see.

He offered me plenty of advice and direction, all of which I took on board.

Michael J. Noonan was very much liked right across the political spectrum. Following his 30 years in public life he continued to be a valued community leader in Bruff and contributed to numerous excellent voluntary projects in the town, including voluntary housing. He was very much cognisant of the sacrifices made by previous generations and as secretary of the Seán Wall Commemoration Committee which commemorated ambushes in Grange and Caherguillamore, where many young men and women lost their lives for the cause of Irish freedom, was very cognisant of the fact that their memory should remain alive and be respected. Occasions such as the commemoration of our noble dead can be hijacked by various political interest groups. Michael Noonan opened them up to everybody, regardless of what party or none he or she was a member.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. Our thoughts are with his family.