Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle) | Oireachtas source

On my own behalf and on behalf of all the Members, I extend deepest sympathy to the Hillery family. I did not have the pleasure of serving with Professor Hillery but I knew him by reputation, and because my family has through my wife very strong connections with Miltown Malbay, I knew him through family connections. It was always a pleasure to meet him on his frequent visits here to Leinster House over the years.

It will have to be said, as encapsulated in the remarks of other Members, that he is someone the breadth and depth of whose service to this country can meet few parallels. Those of us who knew him were fortunate to know him. Those of us who enjoyed the benefits of his endeavours are fortunate to have had him working on our behalf.

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