Eoghan Harris (Independent)

Everybody over the age of 40 is aware of her importance in the modernisation of Irish society. She lifted the lid on all types of dark and sexually suppressed areas of Irish life and returned us to the broad and earthy sexuality of pre-Famine Ireland. She is a work in progress, a beautiful woman and a beautiful writer. After some period of controversy, I hope the darling girl from Clare is now the darling girl of the whole country. I ask Members to join me in saluting Edna O'Brien.