John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

On behalf of the Progressive Democrats, I join with the Leader and the leaders of the other groups in paying tribute to the late Luke Belton. I extend our sympathy to his wife, his children, his extended family and his Fine Gael colleagues. He was steeped in the traditions and values of Fine Gael, and represented the party ably over an extended period. It is remarkable to consider that within the family, the Beltons have provided seven Deputies since the late 1920s, which is an extraordinary contribution to Irish public life and the State, and should be recognised.

Those of us who served with Avril Doyle MEP and former Deputy Louis Belton have them particularly in our thoughts when we remember Luke. He was a prominent member of the licensed trade and served on its committee when it was the Licensed Grocers and Vintners Association — it has come a long way since then. As Senator O'Toole stated, he struggled in business at a difficult time when pubs did not fetch the high prices we see nowadays. He made a serious contribution to the business life of the city as well as to the political life of the city and country. For all of those reasons, it is appropriate that we mark his passing and remember him with affection.