Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)

I wish to be associated with the remarks relating to Tom Fitzpatrick. Tom was a Monaghan man but he became an adopted Cavan man and represented the county with great distinction for 28 years. His impressive CV was well outlined by Deputy Kenny. As previous speakers indicated, Tom was a gentleman and always displayed kindness and respect. He had no political enemies and it says a great deal for someone who spent so long in politics that he was held in such high esteem.

I did not know Tom in earlier life and it was only when I became a Member of the House that it came to my attention that he and his wife, Carmel, visited the Oireachtas on many occasions. It was only six weeks prior to his death that he last visited the Houses and I saw him here on at least three occasions during the year.

On my behalf and that of my Independent colleagues, I offer my deepest sympathy to the members of the Fitzpatrick family, Carmel, Thomas, Geraldine and John Brendan, who is not present. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

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