Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have not had time to prepare many words but I cannot walk out of the tributes. I have sat in the Chamber for six hours but I shall make a special effort to say a few words about such a special man who was a global symbol. Mandela is a global symbol of reconciliation and peaceful co-existence.

His heroic life is an example not just to everyone in his country, but in ours. He had a remarkable influence across the globe. More than 100 dignitaries from various countries attended his memorial. He not only earned his place in history, but showed us all the way by leading by example.

Like others, I pay tribute to the Dunnes Stores workers who put their jobs on the line to ensure that the part against apartheid that he led was honoured and recognised throughout the world.

He led a life unlike any other. He was most influential and courageous, one of the greatest human being ever, and worked tirelessly for peace, although not only in his own country. The way he went about achieving it was an example to all. His sense of decency in his work was profound. He fought for freedom against discrimination for all, especially discrimination against women, as mentioned by Senator van Turnhout and others.

His great sense of forgiveness is an example that we can all take. “Forgiveness” was on his tongue at every opportunity. He triumphed against adversity. I listened to a 25 or 26 year old being interviewed, who mentioned that Mandela had been in prison for longer than that person had been on the Earth, thinking that that was a long time. This is what Mandela went through for peace. It was not easy for him, but when he came out he was about to stretch out his hands in openness and forgiveness to work towards peace.

I thank Nelson Mandela for giving himself to us. He led by his words and his actions. He inspired so many. May he rest in peace. He was a great statesman and man of generosity. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.