Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Other Members will have an opportunity to speak about him. When speaking about Pat Behan, it is difficult to know where to begin. I find myself somewhat at a loss in deciding what to say. We all know him very well. I would like to hear his recipe for good health — he did not take a sick day for 32 years, which is some record — so that it can be given to all those with whom we work. It is a mark of how happy and fulfilled he felt in his job that he liked to get up every day to come to work.

The leaders of all parties in the House were given an exhaustive list of the various roles played by Paddy during his life. We are familiar with the role he has played in this House for many years, first in the ordinary usher service and then as deputy usher and chief usher. He developed a strong interest in genealogy while he was in charge of the register of births and deaths in the Department of Health. He was an avid footballer and jogger during his early school years. When he served in the Reserve Defence Force, his boss was Charlie Haughey. Paddy played an enormous role in his many special interests.

Mr. Behan was working in the Houses of the Oireachtas when many eminent presidents and other people of note visited the Houses. He has had a kaleidoscope of experiences, all of which were notable for his affability, good humour and approachability. He remained cheerful, outgoing, affable, pleasant and eager to help, regardless of whether he was dealing with President Mitterrand or a first-time nervous backbencher in the Dáil or the Seanad. Such attributes and characteristics come to mind when we think of Paddy Behan or try to sum him up. He treated princes and paupers with professionalism, skill, affability and the great interpersonal skills he has in abundance. Paddy was friendly and outgoing whenever one met him, whether it was early in the morning or late in the evening. He was always keen to help and do all he could to make one's path easier.

I know from my private conversations with Paddy that he respected and empathised with those who had difficulties or sorrows. He was in tune with people's approaches to life. I am very grateful to him for that. He is a very fine person who epitomises the highest qualities of public service.