Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As a friend of Noel Treacy for a long number of years I am honoured to have the opportunity to say a few words on behalf of the regional group. Deputy Grealish will also say a few words. What I am going to say is a personal approach. We know his record here and we know all of his achievements. We know of all the elections he has fought. Mary his wife walked through every occasion beside him. I am delighted to see Mary here with their family. It is a great to see you here.

If one was to describe Noel, one would describe him as bright, positive, full of energy, and somebody who was kind, charitable and had a great way of dealing with everybody.

He had no political foes. Everybody was his friend. His handshake was very strong. Even when meeting him for the first time, the handshake meant you knew you were meeting a friend. I remember when I was a member of Fianna Fáil that he would come to meetings. The way he used to speak made sure everyone in the room felt proud to be in that organisation. Regarding his winning of elections, and coming from the same constituency, I know it is not easy to win elections. Noel was proud, however, that he won a by-election and was able to retain his seat thereafter. He was also proud to be able to work in government in so many different Departments. This was not, though, something he talked or boasted about. It was part of his job.

He has left a legacy. It is fitting we are talking about him today. He was chairman of the county board for five years. During that time, he put in place many things that stand to us now. It is ironic that this week we are announcing we are building a new stand in Tuam stadium. I know he would be very proud of this development. I thought of him during the week when we were making the announcement that this was happening. I say this because he was there and he ensured Tuam was kept on the map in GAA circles.

I know his family is proud of him, but they should also remember that the legacy he has left to the country is unbelievable. This is not something highlighted on pedestals or pillars, but it was Noel who did all this. He helped everybody to have a better life. As a Galwegian and a Deputy for Galway East, I am proud to be following in his footsteps. Hopefully, I will be able to do a small percentage of what he did throughout his life for people. I am delighted to see all his family here. Everything said about Noel today is well deserved. In a way, it is inadequate because of the man he was. May his soul rest in peace.

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