Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me to pay tribute to the late Liam Burke, a neighbour of mine in Cork. As a fellow Corkonian, I extend my sympathy to Noreen and her children and to Liam's brothers and sisters. Liam had a special personality and an aura which people loved. His common touch distinguished him and enabled him to connect and communicate with people. His love of sports is well known, including the role he played in developing dog racing in Cork.

I have another connection with Liam's family in that his wife Noreen, formerly Miss Casey, was one of my teachers in primary school. It was with great sadness that I learned of Liam's death following a prolonged illness. He will be well remembered in Cork for the great service he gave its people for so many decades.