Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I wish to offer the condolences of the Independent Members to the family of one of the most exemplary and outstanding supporters of the NUI constituency. Dr. Hillery always took a great interest in that constituency and was a close supporter of my colleague, Senator Quinn. He was also the Senator's near neighbour and good friend. Dr. Hillery attended last year's election count, which was the final occasion on which I spoke to him. He was very gracious to the three of us who won seats and asked us how things were. He always displayed that level of interest.

On a personal level, Dr. Hillery was always a pleasant man. Beyond that, however, today we are recognising an outstanding lifetime and career of commitment and drive on behalf of his community, his profession of medicine, his country and the European project at a wider level. Dr. Hillery has, at various levels, left a mark on western Europe. In that regard, it is worth remembering what he did. He displayed a steely determination, particularly during an extremely difficult period as regards developments in Northern Ireland. He also showed leadership and courage and was prepared to take the unpopular line when, particularly in electoral terms, it was hardly beneficial to do so. Bhí nádúr stóich an Chláirínigh ann agus bhí a phréamhacha sáite i gcultúr iarthar an Chláir. Thug sé an méid sin leis i gcónaí.

Dr. Hillery always tried to see the broader picture. He was extremely interested in the nature of politics. He was a role model for everyone in the context of how to move from local politics into professional activity and on to represent one's country at the highest level. With regard to the various ministries Dr. Hillery held, his name still appears in the rules for national schools, the first edition of which appeared in the period 1963 to 1965 when he served as Minister for Education. He was a popular Minister for Education but I never worked with him in that capacity. I did not come to know him until later.

I wish to be associated with the remarks made by the Leader and Senator Fitzgerald. I offer our condolences to his party, his county and, in a special way, to his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.