Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for allowing us a few minutes to speak about what has been a tragic weekend for the people of County Roscommon. It was very tragic for me. I happened to be at a football match where my son was playing on Friday evening. I was called to one side by the chairman of the county board to be told this news. I was stunned and shocked. I reiterate what you have said, a Leas-Chathaoirligh, John Naughten was an extraordinary individual. He was delighted to have been chosen as the Fine Gael candidate for the general election. I have no doubt but that he would have taken a seat. John Naughten was highly involved in rural and community affairs.

I will say what I said to the local media when they asked me: John Naughten did not understand the term "political opponent". I never saw him use politics against an opponent. He was an absolute gentleman. He will be missed terribly. I cannot come to terms with this myself. On Saturday week last, I spent the whole day with him and his lovely daughter at Ballyforan Fair. He put up pictures on Facebook about it. It is just tragic. We extend our sympathy to Breda, his wife, to Emma, Leah and Orlaith, to his poor mother, to Denis and to all the family. I have been in touch with Denis and he has been in touch with me in recent days. He is very thankful of the outpouring of support and sympathy from everybody, including his colleagues in the Oireachtas. Go ndéanfaidh Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.