Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Independent Group, I extend our sincere sympathy to the family, friends and constituents of the late Sir David Amess. To his wife, Julia, and his daughters and son, we say we stand in solidarity with them to recognise and remember a man who they, in their own words, describe as strong and courageous, a patriot and a man of peace. The brutal murder of David Amess was a senseless and shocking act. The context in which it occurred matters very much and while it must be noted, its discussion is for another day.

In our expression of sympathy, we recognise a man for whom representative democracy was just that - representing his constituents and what mattered in their lives in the House of Commons. He used his platform as an MP to raise awareness and bring about change. That change was firmly rooted, and not in some abstract ideological perspective; rather it came from listening, being available and finding ways to translate the needs of his constituents into policy or legislative change. Like many in this House, I did not know David Amess or his family, but I hope their pain will be slightly lessened by the fact that the tributes we pay to him are real, meaningful and based on a lifetime of service. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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