John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

On behalf of the Progressive Democrats, I wish to be associated with the other groups in the House in extending our sympathy to the wife and family of the late Pat Joe Reynolds. He had a remarkable long life of public service to the State and to the people of Leitrim. His family's continuing service to the State since its foundation is very noteworthy, particularly in the circumstances of his father being assassinated. It is easy to talk about democracy, but when it is tested to that extent, it is a tribute to the Reynolds family and to Pat Joe Reynolds that they persisted in their defence of democracy over that extended period. He had a long and successful life and his record stands in this House as Cathaoirleach and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Local Government and the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs in the days when we had Parliamentary Secretaries before Ministers of State.

When he was re-elected in 1973, Pat Joe Reynolds played a crucial role in returning Fine Gael to Government. That party clearly owes him a particular debt of gratitude. He was a very loyal Leitrim man, very committed to his community of Ballinamore and to the Gaelic Athletic Association, and he made a considerable mark. We extend our sympathy to his wife Tess and in particular to his son Gerry, who has served in both Houses.