Kieran Phelan (Fianna Fail)

I also wish to be associated with the tributes to the late Senator Kate Walsh. As somebody who also hails from Laois, I developed a great relationship with Kate Walsh when I first came into Seanad Éireann. I have known her family in Mageney in south Laois for many years and I offer my deepest sympathy to her brother, John, to Noreen and Ann and her brother-in-law, John Byrne, who is a great personal friend of mine.

I am not able to say much today but I enjoyed every minute of our wonderful friendship over the past five years. Kate Walsh was an absolute lady and I have been privileged to know her and serve in this House with her. I offer my deepest sympathies to the Progressive Democrats and to her family and friends. May she rest in peace.