Don Lydon (Fianna Fail)

Having had the honour to serve with Ruairí Brugha in the same constituency for over 30 years and having been involved with him and his family on a deeply personal level it would be remiss of me to let the moment go without saying one or two words about him. So well spoken were the words of the other speakers that I will not repeat them.

I knew Ruairí Brugha well. He always loved debating a point, no matter what it was, and loved an argument. He had a very good sense of humour and was a very kind man. If he is to be remembered for one thing alone it will be his dedication to resolving the age-old Irish problem by peaceful means, which is what his life was all about

It was remarkable to see that, at his funeral, his family was not sad but rejoiceful, because they felt he could not have accomplished much more in his life. He had achieved all he wanted, had done so in a quiet, unobtrusive manner and had touched many people, especially in Northern Ireland in recent years. He will be remembered as a man dedicated to peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.