Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I would like to be associated with the votes of sympathy to Tony Kett's wife Noreen, his family and friends who are present here today. I knew Tony Kett since he became a Member of this House back in 1997. He served in public life for 21 years. I can honestly say that I never met a finer gentleman in this House or elsewhere. He was one of nature's gentlemen. The old saying goes that "There wasn't a bad bone in his body", which surely typified him. He was never one for a cheap shot but was always dependable and honourable. I got to know him well through the Oireachtas golf society to which he was a great contributor. He played in all the golf outings and loved that game in addition to hurling. I wish to be associated therefore with the votes of sympathy for a gentleman who has passed through this House.