Frank Feighan (Fine Gael)

I want to be associated with the tributes to the late Kate Walsh. I knew of Kate Walsh through friends of mine who lived in Celbridge. I heard about this amazing hard worker who garnered a huge support not just in votes but from her community because of the amount of work she put into it. The political system was honoured to have such a lady who put herself up for high office because she was honest, had integrity and a great deal of wisdom. We want people like that getting involved in the political system. Kate never appeared to be in a hurry. She was always friendly and welcoming and I am sure she did much more than most of us by the way she operated. She will be greatly missed. She was a very humble lady and this House will certainly miss her. The Cathaoirleach said she was the most popular Member of this House and I endorse that. I extend my deepest sympathy to her family, the people of Celbridge and the people of Kildare because they have lost a great champion.