Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

On my behalf and on behalf of the Progressive Democrats, I too express my sympathy to Liam Lawlor's family, particularly his wife, Hazel, his children, Niall, Shane, Gerald and Ciara and his brother, Noel.

When we heard in the early afternoon of 22 October of Liam Lawlor's death, we all found it difficult to believe. One hoped it was a rumour that was not true, as often happens in public life. That he should die within a few days of reaching his 61st birthday was a tragedy that is too much for any family. He did not look 61, he looked much younger. Those who did not know him may not have realised he was such a big man. He was full of energy, an able person and, as the Taoiseach acknowledged, a great spokesperson. To die so suddenly, so unfairly and so far away from home caused enormous and unimaginable pain for his family. As other Members said, the appallingly inaccurate reports at the time of his death was a cross no family should have to bear, least of all Hazel Lawlor and her family. The strength, courage and dignity she and her children showed at the time of his death is something of which he would have been very proud. It is a great example to all of us. May he rest in peace.

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