Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I extend sympathy to the family of the late Senator Patrick O'Reilly who passed away last week at the fine age of 93 years. He was a Member of the Seanad from August 1944 to August 1969 and served on the Agricultural Panel. He served in seven consecutive Seanads under Governments of various political persuasions, yet was returned to office each time.

Mr. O'Reilly was a native of Aughavas, County Leitrim, where he was a farmer. He then moved to Farmullagh, Moyne, County Longford. None of us seems to have definite information on him but it is wonderful that he served continuously in the Seanad for such a long time. All of us who have contested Seanad elections know how difficult it is to be elected once or twice. However, to be elected on seven occasions is remarkable.