John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I join previous speakers and, on behalf of the Progressive Democrats, extend my sympathy to the family of the late Senator Séamus de Brún. I note that the Taoiseach appointed him to the Seanad in 1977 and that our own party leader, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Harney, was appointed on the same day. Previous speakers have referred to the different roads taken by politicians who come to this House. The record of the House shows that his contribution both to the public and cultural life of the country is something of which to be proud. It is commendable to provide service for the political, community or cultural life of one's people and share one's talents with them, mainly on a voluntary basis. We should all be thankful for his love of the Irish language and everything traditionally Irish. If people like him do not continue to promote and support our own culture, there is a danger that we will lose the fine qualities our nation possesses. For this he should be saluted. He expressed his views and ideas in this House at a time when membership of the Seanad was largely voluntary. This was an extension of his commitment to Irish social, cultural and political life. I extend the sympathy of the Progressive Democrats to his family and the Fianna Fáil party.