Feargal Quinn (Independent)

During the past hour, I have been thinking of how proud Kate would have been to have listened today. I realised that is incorrect because the word "pride" and Kate Walsh simply did not belong together, except for one aspect that has been mentioned in the House today. She was very proud of being a Member of this House and of being able to contribute to its work. While she was an inspiration to many, she showed great commitment when she spoke. While it may not have been often, she was very committed when she spoke. If anything, she might have been somewhat embarrassed by today's proceedings because I can remember her rising to speak and apologising for it being the third time she had spoken on the topic in question, namely, road safety.

She stated that Ireland has had too many needless funerals. She was highly committed to that particular topic and today's proceedings serve as a reminder of the other topics and subjects that attracted her attention. When she spoke on road safety in particular and on the work carried out by the Garda, she spoke of personal responsibility. I never heard her criticise bodies, organisations or structures. She was always positive and any criticism was constructive in that it referred to personal responsibility. She also spoke of those who drove trucks without keeping their windscreens or lights clean, of cyclists who did not have lights on their bicycles and of pedestrians. She did not blame organisations but made constructive suggestions because she was greatly concerned that Members of this House had a responsibility and could do something about it.

It has been both interesting and sad to hear the contributions today. However, it has also been an inspiration because it has acted as a reminder to those Members who may not have been aware of the work she did outside of the House. While Members knew something of her work for the aged and in the community, her other work has been revealed today. The allocation of time today, short as it is, serves as a reminder of how much Members owe to her. Their sympathies go to all her colleagues and friends, her sisters, Ann and Noreen, her brother, John, and to all those who have benefitted from her commitment, trust and inspiration over the years. She will be missed in this House.