Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Unfortunately, I was not here on Thursday but I join colleagues in expressing sympathy to the family of the late Michael D'Arcy Sr. I had the privilege of serving with him on the former Gorey town council. In fact, he was the last chair before town councils were abolished. Michael had a passion for his community and politics. You could disagree with him at a meeting but once the meeting was over, he would chat to you about life and sports. He never took anything personally. He loved the community of north Wexford, where he was from. I extend my sympathies to his wife, Marie, his children, grandchildren and extended family.

I am conscious, as no doubt is the Leader, that posters have started to go up on poles all around the country. We sometimes take for granted that we live in one of Europe's longest continuous democracies. We should celebrate and appreciate that we have open, fair and democratic elections. I commend anybody who has put their name on a ballot paper for either the local or European elections. It takes courage - it might take a bit of madness as well. I wish the Leader and all colleagues in this and the other House who are contesting the European elections the best of luck. To candidates, whether they are seasoned campaigners or first-time enthusiastic candidates, we should extend the best of luck. It takes a bit of bravery to put your neck out there to represent your community. We should all, regardless of party or background, celebrate that we live in this rich democracy.