Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

I wish to be associated with the tributes to the late Michael Howard who was a Member of the House from 1977 to 1987 and from 1989 to 1997. Mr. Howard was president of the Vintners Federation of Ireland in 1976 and 1977. Nominated to the Seanad by the association in 1989, he tenaciously represented the interests of publicans and business in the Chamber.

Michael made a huge contribution to political life and the Houses of the Oireachtas in his role as a Senator. His daughter Mary continues the political tradition, having been elected to Ennis Town Council, and I wish her well in the future. It was a great honour, as Cathaoirleach, to have represented Seanad Éireann at Michael's funeral in Ennis. I express the thanks of Senators to Michael's family for affording Seanad Éireann and the people of County Clare his outstanding commitment to public life. I also extend my sincere sympathy on their sad loss. May he rest in peace.