Mary Henry (Independent)

Kate Walsh was a woman who bore serious disease with great courage. I have frequently been grateful to her for the support she has given me as President of the Diabetes Federation of Ireland in promoting awareness of the condition and of the various problems arising from it. Senator Dardis quoted one of her Seanad speeches on the issue. Any time one ever wanted a problem addressed in this area, one only had to mention it and Kate brought forward an idea. She constantly referred to the need for people to be aware of the condition and to take more exercise in order to avoid developing it. She knew this too well herself. She was constantly aware of the need for more screening for the condition and for more treatment centres. When we had debated podiatry in the Seanad, she was one of those who came forward with her support.

Senator Kate Walsh will be a terrible loss to her family. However, I feel her untimely death is a particular loss to the community in Celbridge. She supported the board of Peamount Hospital in the setting up of the Rinskey centre, the day centre for elderly people opened by the former Tánaiste, Deputy Harney. It is the support of people like Kate Walsh, who work within their communities, that means much to those involved with voluntary boards. Board members know that worthwhile progress will be made if they get support from people involved in the community. Senator Kate Walsh will be a great loss to many, including people who have never been in the House, many of whom I have met. I regret her untimely passing.