Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I wish to be associated with the expressions of sympathy to Maureen and the Kenneally family on the passing of Billy. As a relatively new Member of the House and a Waterford representative, I am proud to be following in the footsteps of a man like Billy Kenneally. I did not know him personally but he was known to me as I grew up. I was surrounded by political activity, albeit on the other side, representing the Fine Gael Party. My late father, Mr. Pat Coffey, was a friend and colleague of Billy Kenneally and they worked across many sectors in representing the people of Waterford for many years.

There is no doubt that Billy Kenneally did not serve the people of Waterford by chance. It is well known in Waterford how connected he was to the grassroots and the people who really mattered, the people of the constituency. Billy put great faith in clinics and meeting people on a regular basis so he could represent their views at national level. It is important we remember we are here to represent the views of the people who elected us.

Generations of the Kenneally family have been involved in politics. Senator O'Toole spoke about the impact of politics on families. As the father of a young family, I understand the pressures we can face. Maureen and all the Kenneally family gave great support to Billy over the years. Nobody could stay active in the rough and tumble of politics in the absence of a supportive family. I consider generational politics as a good thing. Several Members of these Houses have followed their fathers or mothers into politics after learning over many years how to represent the people of their respective areas. We should encourage this practice at every opportunity.

I offer my sincere sympathies to the Kenneally family, including my Oireachtas colleague, Deputy Brendan Kenneally. The people of Waterford will always respect Billy.