Joe O'Toole (Independent)

None of us on the Independent benches knew the late Senator Farrell. Nevertheless, we would like to be associated with the expressions of condolence to her family and her party. As is always said on these occasions, people come and go through these Houses. Such people took part in the development of this country, this nation, this House and legislation, which makes us who we are. In that sense, it is utterly appropriate that we should pay tribute to people who have given time to public life.

Senator Farrell could have done many other things, but she chose to spend her time not working for herself but making a contribution as a public representative. This is a time to remind ourselves and others of the importance of public representation and of attracting and maintaining good people in it. That is what we remember today in expressing our condolences.