Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

I join my party leader and other Members in expressions of sympathy to the late, great John Wilson. John served in this House for 20 years. He was a decent, hard-working and honourable servant of the people. He was easily recognised in a crowd because of his distinctly long hairstyle. He was a giant in every way. He was well-liked by people from all sides of politics and sectors. As a Minister and as Tánaiste he played a major role at national and international level. Originally, he was best-known for his role on the football field, an area in which he had a proud record.

I was first honoured to get to know John Wilson when I was at a senior level in the IFA. I was at many meetings with him during that time. He had a great interest in the Irish position at that level and in the Northern Ireland process. In later years, he played a major role in the peace process to help to solve some difficult problems.

I extend my sympathy to his wife, Ita, his family, grandchildren, his nephew, Senator Diarmuid Wilson, his Fianna Fáil colleagues in Cavan-Monaghan, which he proudly represented, the Taoiseach and the Fianna Fáil Party.

I am sure when John Wilson is looking down on us today, he will be smiling at all the nice things being said about him. He certainly deserves them.

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