Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

It is particularly sad to be acknowledging the contribution of a serving Member of the Oireachtas on the occasion of his death. It is incredible to think that Séamus Brennan, who was so full of life, has passed away. As the Taoiseach stated this morning, Séamus was out canvassing in favour of the Lisbon treaty recently even though he was so ill.

I have known Séamus all my life. I got to know him particularly well on family holidays in Connemara. He was a great man to give one a job, whether it was caddying for him during a round of golf or babysitting the children. He was always keen to involve one in things. My siblings and I have great memories of family holidays from that time.

When I was first elected to the Dáil, Séamus made a point of coming over to congratulate me and say how pleased he was because he had watched my progress since I was young. He was delighted that I had been bitten by the political bug and had managed to gain election to the Dáil.

Séamus was the consummate politician. He put the razzmatazz in politics and completely transformed the way in which it is conducted in this country. He was a politician upon whom one could model oneself. As the Taoiseach stated this morning, Séamus was not interested in just holding office, he also wanted to serve. He introduced innovations in each Department in which he served and this will be remembered. Everyone should follow the example of his dedication to public service.

There is one other person, other than the members of the Brennan family, who comes to mind today and that is Séamus's right-hand man, Frank Lahiffe. One always knew that if Frank was around, Séamus would not be far away.

I was given a lift to the DART station this morning by one of the local council workers who informed me that he could not believe that Séamus had died. The man in question stated that he had seen Séamus on Dún Laoghaire pier on many occasions and that he was always prepared to stop and talk to people. Individuals from all walks of life have been touched by Séamus's passing.

Séamus had great skills. Senator Boyle got to know him particularly well and would have witnessed his great calmness and his abilities as a deal-maker, which helped put together so many Governments.

I wish to make one political point. Those of us in the Progressive Democrats will often wonder what could have been had Séamus made the leap and joined our party. In any event, I wish to remember the wonderful service he gave to the country and offer my condolences to his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.