Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

It was with much sadness and regret that we learned of the death of our dear friend and colleague, Senator Tony Kett, last Sunday. Tony, who had been ill for a short time, was a dedicated public servant. While he never looked for any kind of recognition, he was undoubtedly deserving of it. At local and national level, he gave long and dedicated service to his community, his county, his country and his party, Fianna Fáil, which he served for over 40 years. During Tony Kett's political career, he garnered many friends and admirers from all sides of the political spectrum. His sad passing has been deeply felt by many people.

Tony Kett was born in Ballinasloe, County Galway. He was a long-standing member of the party. He displayed astute political wisdom over the years. He used his remarkable organisational skills to help his lifelong friend, Deputy Bertie Ahern, to establish the Dublin Central constituency organisation as one of the country's most effective political campaign units. He will long be remembered as a brilliant political strategist and as an effective Senator and public representative. He first entered public politics in 1988, when he was co-opted onto the then Dublin Corporation. In 1997, he was elected to Seanad Éireann on the Administrative Panel. He was re-elected at each subsequent Seanad election. During his time in public office, Tony demonstrated considerable ability. He was particularly committed to addressing the issues that affect the most disadvantaged sectors of our society. He had a deep interest in and knowledge of disability issues and education policies. That was his passion. When he spoke in this House about matters like special needs education, Senators knew he was speaking from the heart.

As the Cathaoirleach said, Tony Kett worked for many years as an administrator in the Central Remedial Clinic. His practical experience and expertise in that area were greatly valued by many people. Despite his illness and his declining health, he continued to work for those causes. He attended the sittings of Seanad Éireann right up until the Easter break. He was a man of great courtesy and dignity. To my knowledge, he never uttered a nasty word or comment about anyone, which is why he genuinely got on so well with so many people. Tony Kett was a good and decent man. On behalf of the House, the Fianna Fáil Party and on my own behalf, I wish to convey our sincere sympathy to Tony's wife, Noreen, his son, Jason, his daughters, Joanne and Jenifer, his daughter-in-law, Zoe, his granddaughter, Isabelle, his brothers, Eric and Shay, his sisters, Ann, Rose and Pat, his extended family and his many friends. Go ndéanfaidh Dia trócaire ar a anam.