Joe O'Toole (Independent)

Our duty here today is to pay our respects to somebody who served the State for a long time as Taoiseach, the highest parliamentary elected position in the country. I believe the words spoken by the previous speakers would be echoed by all of us, the reality being that people will have different views of Charlie Haughey, a controversial and charismatic figure who was perhaps loved and loathed in equal portions but nonetheless whose contribution has been huge in whichever way it may come to be measured.

Mr. Haughey was unquestionably visionary and had a novel and creative approach to the various Departments in which he served prior to becoming Taoiseach. As Taoiseach, he introduced a presidential style of Cabinet leadership and took an interest in what was going on in every single Department. We saw his novel and creative approach in issues such as the artists' tax exemption, the IFSC and Temple Bar and his support for free travel for old age pensioners, many of which initiatives he undertook against the advice of senior officials and others. That must be recognised.

It must also be recognised that as well as the qualities of statesmanship which he showed time and again and his patriotic zeal for the country, he, like many great historical figures, had a collection of human flaws and frailties to balance all that. That is something on which history will make a judgment and on which, as Senator Brian Hayes said, people have probably already made up their minds. It is not for us to pass judgment on that, rather it is for us to recognise that he made a contribution as Taoiseach.

At all times he showed absolute respect for every elected politician, irrespective of what side of the House or what House they came from. I heard him say on a number of occasions that somebody who was elected to come in the gate was somebody who demanded respect. He was approachable by people at all levels from all parties or none. In that context, it is fitting that we should recognise his contribution as Taoiseach.

I should also say, being from Corca Dhuibhne, go raibh dlúth-bhaint aige leis an taobh sin tíre. Chaith sé tamaillín i ngach bliain dá shaol sa taobh sin tíre agus go mórmhór in Inis Mhic Aoibhleáin, sna mBlascodaí, áit ina ndúirt sé riamh go raibh draíocht speisialta ann. Bhí dlúth-cheangal aige le muintir Chorca Dhuibhne.

We offer our condolences to his family and to Maureen who made a significant contribution. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.