Rory Kiely (Fianna Fail)

As a fellow Limerick man, I too want to join in the tributes. Mr. Russell's service to Limerick as a politician, employer and sportsman was second to none. Limerick docks are dedicated to Mr. Russell to mark his 26 year service to Limerick Harbour Commissioners. During his tenure as mayor in the 1950s he played a key role in re-activating the drive to establish a university in Limerick. As a businessman he oversaw the development of significant businesses such as the Silvermines Group, National Food Ingredients and Dan O'Connor Limited, a livestock feed supplier. Having been a dairy farmer myself, I was one of his valued customers.

In recognition of the contribution he made to Limerick, he was made a freeman of the city, an honour he deserved. He had many and varied interests. He served as chairman of the Irish Cancer Society, he had a lifelong association with Bohemians rugby club, played for Munster and was capped for Ireland. He was captain of Bohemians rugby team in the 1936-7 season. He was a director and president of the chamber of commerce and was deeply involved in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

I had the pleasure of meeting Senator Russell often. I always looked forward to meeting him and chatting about politics or business life in the city. His company was first class. His family will mourn and Limerick will feel his loss.

To his wife, Derry, and children, Mary, Margaret, George and Derry, I offer my sincerest sympathy on their sad loss.