Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Tánaiste and leader of Fine Gael, I extend my deepest sympathy to Bobby's wife Helena, his children Bob, Mark and Triona, and his family and friends. Bobby dedicated his life to public service. Today his constituents in Carlow-Kilkenny are grateful for his service to their community, a community that is much better because of him. Mar Thánaiste agus mar cheannaire Fhine Gael, ba mhaith liom mo chomhbhrón a dhéanamh lena theaghlach agus lena chairde agus le muintir Chill Chainnigh agus Cheatharlach.

Coming from a family with such a strong tradition of public service and hard work, as a councillor Bobby knew what it took to represent his constituents well. The Aylward family have given lifelong service to the people of Carlow-Kilkenny - his father before him, his brother, and now his nephew. Representing the people of Carlow-Kilkenny as a Deputy from 2007 until 2011, and then again from 2015 to 2020, Bobby was tireless in bringing the voices of the people of Carlow-Kilkenny to the floor of this Chamber. From looking back over the debates we both took part in, his was a voice that was honest and forthright. His approach to politics was a very simple one: respect and time for others, always looking out for them, straight up and straightforward. For those reasons, he was liked well across all political parties.

My party colleague and fellow Kilkenny man, Deputy John Paul Phelan, tells me that while they came from very different political backgrounds and political parties, Bobby could not have been more helpful and encouraging to the then young John Paul in those early council elections. From Mullinavat, and a long-standing member and chairman of Ballyhale Shamrocks GAA club, Bobby knew the value and importance of community.

Perhaps the day that best connects the two of us was Friday, 22 May 2015. This was a day of great pride. Bobby was re-elected to the Dáil following his successful by-election campaign, and the referendum on marriage equality was passed. It was an important day. I know it was also a powerful shot in the arm for his party, which from that day believed it could win again and indeed did. Retiring from politics after the 2020 election, he left behind a community and constituency that is much better for knowing him. He would be proud looking back on what he achieved locally and nationally for Carlow and Kilkenny.

My thoughts today, and those of the Fine Gael party, are with Bobby's family, friends and community. Farewell. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam dílis.

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