Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Regional Group I would like to extend our sympathies to: Helena, Bobby's wife; his daughter, Triona; his sons, Bob and Mark; and the extended family and friends. I know their nephew Robert well. He is a garda in Wexford and Clare, Bobby's sister, lives not far from me. Although our paths never crossed as I am quite new to politics, I am well aware of the great dynasty of the Aylward family. They are not far away in Mullinavat and we have a lot in common, including a lot of neighbours in common.

From the perspective of the conversations I have had about Bobby, I know his first love was his family. His second love was probably the GAA and politics came in third. From that perspective I know that it is a tough time of the year. Christmas is always a little more lonely for some reason. I can see in Helena's expression how much she misses him and I want to say, with our deepest sympathy, that we will keep her in our thoughts and prayers.

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