Margaret Conlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

I wish to be associated with the expressions of sympathy to Ita and the family of the late John Wilson. I consider it a privilege to have known John. I first met him in the late 1980s when I served on the national executive of the party. At that time I valued his excellent guidance and wisdom. As has been said today, he was a man of tremendous ability, both on and off the football field. He had many achievements in seven different Departments. He represented the Cavan-Monaghan constituency with great distinction. His foremost aim was to represent all his constituents in an effective manner. All sides of the House will agree he discharged this duty to a very high standard at all times. His constituents held him in high regard and this was evident at his funeral. His was an impressive style and he exuded charisma when he entered a room or stood up to speak. One might expect to be entertained in several languages by one of the finest orators I have ever met.

To John's wife, Ita, to his children, John, Claire, Siobhán, Lucy and Maria, and his nephew, Senator Diarmuid Wilson, I offer my deepest sympathy on their great personal loss. As a new Deputy for Cavan-Monaghan, I can only aspire to his achievements. His will be a hard act to follow. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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