Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I, too, extend my sympathies to the Burke family, to Liam's wife, Noreen, his daughters, Catherine and Emma, his sisters, Kitty and Mary and his brothers, John and Gerry. As with the tributes from all sides of the House I can say that Liam Burke was a gentleman, first and foremost. The expressions of sympathy across the floor of the House serve to emphasise how popular he was in Dáil Éireann but more importantly among his many friends and neighbours in Whites Cross, Glanmire and the entire north side of Cork city.

He was a person who enjoyed life. He was great company and was a good colleague in the constituency as well. I certainly have learned a few tricks from him over the years. These were displayed in a very humorous manner. On many occasions at public meetings, for example, one could be under a great deal of pressure and Deputy Burke could feel sorry for one, take one under his wing and bail one out. That was something I appreciated very much.

Our families are related but the connection varied between uncle or fourth cousins, depending on who was writing the script. It was nice to have known and served with Liam, particular on Cork City Council where he took a passionate interest in everything that concerned his city. He was a great lover of sports, particularly greyhounds and coursing. The highlight of his sporting career, as the Taoiseach mentioned, was winning the Waterloo Cup with Henrietta. Celebrations went on for many a long night across the northside of Cork city. That probably rivalled the celebrations for his election victories. He was a doughty campaigner, epitomising honour and decency in politics.

I express my sympathy and that of my family to Liam's wife and family, his many friends in White's Cross, the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party which includes many of his genuine friends, and the broader Fine Gael family.

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