Feargal Quinn (Independent)

It is with great sadness that I speak on behalf of the Members of the Independent group. I heard of Séamus Brennan's organisational ability when he was general secretary of the Fianna Fáil Party a long time ago. I first came across him when he was Minister of State with responsibility for trade and marketing and immediately thereafter when he became Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications. As I had a background in tourism, I often talked, debated and negotiated with Séamus in those days. Like Senator Fitzgerald, I found it easy to talk to him and he was a very good listener who was intent on achieving successful outcomes.

At that time, I did not realise he was an accountant or that he had studied economics and commerce. When I teased him about this later — I do not particularly care for accountants — he relished it. I was impressed by Séamus's ability to confront issues in his role as Minister for Education. He did not hide from issues but faced up to them and on that occasion he faced up to vested interests. He was a very influential and convincing person which is the reason he achieved so much.

In more recent years, Séamus showed determination as Minister for Transport and expressed deep sadness at every road death. He was committed to doing something about road deaths and believed he could help.

More recently, as Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Séamus wanted to help the underprivileged and was anxious to ensure no one should be without help. This was the reason he grabbed hold of that role.

Séamus had a wonderful sense of humour. I have quoted previously a lovely comment he once made when I introduced him at a function. When I had finished he said the reason he loved to speak after me was that it was not necessary to lower the microphone because we were both the same height. As the Leader will be aware, Séamus was also an active golfer. I am sure he will reduce his handicap even further in heaven.

The first comment I heard on the radio this morning, from President McAleese, is one we should leave in our minds. The President referred to the major role Séamus had in building modern Ireland. That is the role for which we will all remember him. Our thoughts go to his wife, Ann, and their six children. The world and this House are poorer places without Séamus. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.