Ray Butler (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am grateful to have this opportunity to speak about a great friend and a valued colleague, the late Shane McEntee. He was a wonderful support to me throughout my election campaign. I feel honoured to be able to say that he subsequently became a true friend. So much has already been said about this man who showed such great dedication to his work. He was a man with a strong work ethic who tried so hard to deliver the very best outcome in all instances. He represented those who elected him in great earnest, dealing with every problem head on as best he could - be it from the man down the street or the many organisations he dealt with on a daily basis.

On any given occasion I called on Shane for advice he was always there and his good counsel could be relied upon every time. He made great sacrifices throughout his political career and as a consequence of that, so did his wife Kathleen and their family. As a man of great integrity, his untimely passing and loss will continue to be felt both in this House and far beyond.

It is said that a person's true wealth is the good that he or she does in the world. In Shane's case, I believe that no truer words could apply. Like Shane's beloved family, the people of Meath and his Fine Gael colleagues will continue to feel his loss for many years to come.

I would like to echo the Taoiseach's fine words at the graveside: "Please God, Shane, we'll meet you up the road some day again."

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