Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I move:

That the Ceann Comhairle direct the Clerk of the Dáil to issue his writ for the election of a Member to fill the vacancy which has occurred in the membership of the present Dáil consequent on the death of Deputy Shane McEntee, a member for the constituency of Meath East.

This vacancy in the membership of the Dáil has resulted from the untimely passing of the former Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, the late Mr. Shane McEntee. During his time in political life, Shane McEntee did an outstanding job for Ireland for the people he represented. Elected in a famous by-election in 2005, Shane brought huge energy, enthusiasm and sincerity to his new role as a public representative. His commitment to the people of Meath was unparalleled. The huge outpouring of grief and sorrow at his passing bears testament to the great esteem in which he was held both in his home county and nationally. His qualities were the ones he utilised brilliantly in his role as Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, where his dedication to duty was so widely recognised.

He did not confine his work to the field of agriculture and food. He was also, of course, a very strong champion for those homeowners affected by the pyrite issue and shortly before he died he succeeded in having these homes exempted from the local property tax. Nowhere was his incredible commitment and passion more obvious than on this issue. It is my sincere hope that his successor will carry on this Trojan work for the people of Meath East and beyond, and will always work honourably and with that same sincerity. Shane's genuine compassion, combined with his interest in and concern for people and their lives allowed him to excel in his role as a public representative. He was both admired and respected, but above all else was trusted.

The decision to move the writ today fulfils the Government's standing commitment not to leave seats in this House vacant for periods of longer than six months. We can all agree that Shane McEntee's absence is still deeply felt in the House, both in his Fine Gael family and outside it. However, he left a rare and wonderful legacy. The forthcoming by-election will give the people of Meath East the opportunity to select someone to continue the work started by Shane McEntee and to build on his great legacy.

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