John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I thank the Cathaoirleach for the opportunity to speak. I join with previous speakers in acknowledging the great contribution to public life in Cork of the late Liam Burke. As Senator Ryan said, those of us from Cork knew him as "Burkie". I got to know him in 1999 when I was elected to Cork City Council. Liam was very much the father figure on the council and often offered a word of advice across the floor. I was glad when he spoke before me on a particular issue because it was always possible to take a lead from him. He was a tipster when it came to dog racing and also a political tipster. At times he confused those roles so that a person might be uncertain as to what he or she was backing. He enjoyed such mischievousness.

My family is friendly with the Burkes, and Liam's wife Noreen in particular, who also taught me in primary school at Eglantine. I should discuss this with Senator Terry because it is possible we attended school together.