Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

He said Frankie would be all right.

That is my personal recollection of John. I remember his support in 1999 and his advice, his wise counsel and his wisdom at a very important time, when I was very much in a hurry in politics. When I think back to many of the stories my father-in-law, Tom Enright, has told me about what went on in this House in terms of the machinations and pressure votes that happened during very difficult times, maybe this is not the occasion to share them. John Bruton and my father-in-law, Tom Enright, came into this House in 1969, and I think only four Members from the class of '69 are still alive.

Today is an opportunity to reflect. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the fact time moves very fast, but it is also a good opportunity to take stock of a man who was a force of nature. He brought his whole persona to everything he did and I want to join with all colleagues across the House in offering my sympathy to all the members of the Bruton family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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