Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

On behalf of my party, I wish to express our sympathy on the sad death of Richard Hourigan. I did not know Richard Hourigan, even though I was a Member of the Dáil on one occasion when he was a Member of the Seanad. I cannot accurately place him but, having read about him and spoken about him to Senator Brennan, I have obtained a clearer picture of him.

Richard Hourigan served as a Senator from 1983 to 1987 and from 1989 to 1992. He was famous in agricultural circles and was particularly well known in the IFA. He was especially noted for his expertise and knowledge, which he used professionally in the field of agriculture.

Mr. Hourigan was from Murroe, County Limerick, and he contested one Dáil election. He and members of his family were well known for their public spiritedness and civic engagement. His brother has been a long-time member of Limerick County Council, which he served on one occasion as cathaoirleach and he is currently a member of the local authority.

This is the second occasion during this session we have had expressions of sympathy in respect of a former Member of the House. It is a noble sentiment and rite that we should continue because Mr. Hourigan served here as a Member. He served in the interests of agriculture, a topic on which he contributed his expertise during his two terms as Senator. I am sure his wisdom and knowledge of agriculture were of great benefit in the Seanad debates. On behalf of the Fianna Fáil Party, I extend our sympathy to the members of his family, his wide circle of friends and acquaintances and, particularly, the agricultural community where his loss will be deeply felt.