Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

I am honoured to speak today on behalf of the Fine Gael group in Seanad Éireann to pay tribute to the late Séamus Brennan, Minister, Chief Whip, Deputy and Senator. He served for over 40 years in public service and, as the Leader of the House said, often he was at the cutting edge of Irish politics.

I extend my sincere sympathy and condolences to Séamus's wife, Ann, his children, who are here with us, and his extended family and friends. I hope they can take some small consolation from the words spoken here today about a much admired politician and man. Séamus served in many Ministries under three Taoisigh, including Chief Whip, Education, Communications, Transport, Trade, Social and Family Affairs, and, most recently, Arts, Sport and Tourism. What a wonderful record he has had of public service in so many Ministries and as a constituency Deputy. In all his Ministries he went about his business in a diligent, determined and effective manner. When he passed away I said how difficult it was to appear on a radio or television programme with Séamus because one could not argue with him. He explained his position and policy in such a gentle, calm and reasonable manner, always with a smile and always so courteous.

To succeed in politics requires a certain temperament. Séamus met and exceeded this requirement. We all saw the effectiveness of his people skills when he kept together a Government supported by a variety of independent Deputies from 1997 until 2002. This takes a certain character and understanding and Séamus had such traits in abundance. Towards the end of his life he showed a steeliness and determination as he battled his illness with such courage, doing his utmost to continue his public duties right up to the end. It is most sad that this courteous man, a true gent of Irish politics, passed away at such a young age.

On behalf of Fine Gael I again extend my sympathies and condolences to Ann, her children, Fianna Fáil and all Séamus's Dublin South constituents, friends and colleagues. Ireland has lost a decent, honourable man who served this country well. He is missed and will continue to be missed. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.