Alex White (Labour)

On behalf of the Labour Party, I wish to be associated with the condolences to the Howard family on the sad loss of former Senator, Michael Howard. Unlike other party leaders, I was not personally acquainted with him, but I know from my Labour Party colleagues that he was a man who was held in considerable affection and respect in the House over the 20 years he served so loyally here and on Clare County Council. This was a long period of active and dedicated service to public life and the importance of that contribution is enormous. I noticed that even after he had retired in 1997 he remained very active politically and was involved in the campaign against the downgrading of the Ennis hospital in 2003. Even at that stage, he was still very committed to Ennis and his county, which is to his credit.

I was not personally acquainted with the former Senator, but it is impressive to see so many members of his family in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery. I am acquainted with two members of his family, Elizabeth Howard and Michael Howard junior, Senior Counsel. In my short political trajectory my colleagues have, at various times, expressed support for me, and perhaps, more often, sympathy in my various dilemmas, but none more so than Michael Howard junior. I thank him for that. Knowing him and Liz as I do, I have some sense or glimpse of the kind of man their father was. It is appropriate we mark his passing in this House but, obviously, it is the members of his family who have suffered the greatest loss on his untimely passing. On behalf of the Labour Party I pass our sympathy to all the family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.