Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Owing to the sudden and tragic death this morning of our dear friend and colleague, Senator Kieran Phelan, I propose that we adjourn the business of the House until 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday, 1 June.

Senator Phelan was a true gentleman and a great Senator. He was loved for his humorous personality and genuine way. He was proud to be a Member of Seanad Éireann and was one of our best attendees. He was elected to the 22nd Seanad in 2002 on the Industrial and Commercial Panel and re-elected in 2007. Like his late father, Paddy, he had been a member of Laois County Council for a number of years, having been given the great honour of being chairman of that council.

Despite his love of Seanad Éireann, his main priorities were his wife, son, four daughters, mother and extended family. His sudden death has robbed them of a great husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. On behalf of the Fianna Fáil Party, I offer our sincere condolences to his wife, Mary; his five children, Fiona, Martina, Brenda, Aisling and Patrick; his mother, Delia; his 16 brothers and sisters, including Brendan who is a member of Laois County Council; his family and friends. May God comfort them and console them on their great loss. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam.