Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

The Leader dealt very comprehensively with the background of Ruairí Brugha, to which I have very little to add, except to endorse, on behalf of Fine Gael, the Leader's comments and tribute to him. I respected the bipartisan approach of Ruairí Brugha and Jack Lynch to the Sunningdale agreement from 1973 to 1977, despite Ruairí Brugha's strong background in physical force nationalism and his father's involvement in it. He deserves considerable respect for this. Their approach was a forerunner for subsequent movement with regards to Northern Ireland where this bipartisan agreement has existed over the years. I acknowledge everything said about Ruairí Brugha by the Leader and pay tribute to him and his long experience in the Seanad. He served as an MEP, a Deputy and a Senator, which I believe to be a unique achievement in Irish politics.