Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I know there has been a request to pay tribute today to former South African President, Nelson Mandela, as has happened in the other House. I do not think there has been any shortage of tributes to the late Nelson Mandela since the news of his passing broke late last Thursday evening. However, it is fitting that this House pays its own tribute to such a remarkable and iconic man. No words of ours will do him justice, but some of those used over the last few days to describe the life of the anti-apartheid leader, Madiba, as he was affectionately known, have been "leader", "hero", "icon", "giant of history", "liberator" and "freedom fighter". It is absolutely right that such words should be used.

Mandela was a towering figure of South Africa's struggle for freedom who escaped the brutal apartheid regime, and was certainly a hero to many in the world. I suggest that his struggle was everybody's struggle and I think that his transition from prisoner to president stands out as one of the greatest journeys to freedom the world has ever witnessed. He was a global symbol of reconciliation and peaceful coexistence; a custodian willing to die for what he believed in. To quote South African President Zuma:

He leaves the people of the world who embraced him as their own beloved icon. Most importantly, he leaves behind a deeply entrenched legacy of freedom, human rights and democracy in our country.

He was born in a small village in the Eastern Cape and he became involved in activism against the white minority regime as a young law student, joining the African National Congress. His peaceful means and his forgiveness are words that have been used more than most. He was willing to forgive those who imprisoned him and those who inflicted hardship on him. He was willing to move on, and that is a sign of a wonderful man.

I know our own President described Mr. Mandela as "one of history's greatest leaders, a man whose unprecedented courage and dedication broke down the cruel barriers of apartheid in South Africa." Likewise, the Taoiseach stated that "Mandela has now finished his long walk, but his journey has transformed not only his country, but humanity itself." We ask that his spirit continues to inspire, guide and enlighten us as we strive to bring freedom and dignity to the family of man. I think we saw that today at the funeral, where we had leaders from a wide range of countries. We even saw President Obama shake hands with Fidel Castro's brother and embrace many other dignitaries. That would not have happened if we were not celebrating the passing of a wonderful man.

I doubt if we will see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. Mar a deirtear as Gaeilge, ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís. Ba mhaith liom a rá, ar son mo pháirtí, "ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."