Mary White (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)

I join with the Taoiseach and the leaders of the Opposition in expressing my condolences to the people of Poland on the death of President Kaczynski, the first lady and 94 other people killed in the plane crash in Smolensk on 10 April. I express these condolences on behalf of my parliamentary colleagues and the entire Green Party.

Poland has lost its president and all nations grieve when they lose their president. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Polish people as they come to terms with this tragedy of losing a leader and other prominent political, military and religious figures. Their death, while travelling to commemorate another tragedy, no doubt compounds the sorrow of the Polish people. They have lost a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of freedom, democracy and human rights. We take political and civil rights for granted in this country but for many years Poland did not enjoy these rights. President Kaczynski embodied a struggle to achieve such cherished goals.

He was a man who had the courage of his convictions over many years of political struggle in his own land and he believed in high standards in public office. He loved his country; he was a patriot but not a nationalist. He was rather sceptical of big business, not least because of the concern for workers' rights.

As a new Minister of State with responsibility for integration, I am acutely aware of the invaluable contribution the Polish community makes to our country and society. In every county we have got to know the Polish people in our schools, sporting associations and workplaces. We have also got to know their work ethic, industry and commitment to families. Ireland has benefited from knowing our Polish friends and neighbours. Their sorrow is our sorrow at this time.

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