Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

On behalf of the Sinn Féin Deputies, I join other speakers in expressing our sympathy to the family of the late former Deputy Larry McMahon. To his sister, his sons and daughters, his grandchildren and his extended family, we convey our sincere condolences. I also offer sympathy to Deputy Kenny and the Fine Gael Party on the loss of somebody who was a stalwart representative in a number of fora over many years.

Following the death of former Deputy McMahon, whom I did not have the pleasure or privilege to meet, I spoke to my colleague, Deputy Crowe, who represents the same area. He described the late former Deputy McMahon as a decent and honourable person. By all accounts that view is universally held. The Taoiseach mentioned that the late Larry McMahon was born in County Kildare and had a great passion for Dublin football. As a Monaghan native, born and bred in the home of the McMahons, I often wondered over the days since his death if he had any association with the land of the McMahons. The town of Monaghan was built by the clan.

I again extend our sympathies. All I can do is put my hand on my heart and live in hope that when he was making other choices, he might have considered Sinn Féin. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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