Joe O'Toole (Independent)

Sudden death stops us in our tracks and we have all taken a hard hit this morning. We on the Independent benches would like to be associated with the expressions of sympathy to Kieran's wife and family and his Fianna Fáil colleagues and staff. He always came across to us as being a good natured, honest and decent person. He was a person of integrity, on whom we could rely. He was a man of his word and always loyal. He had a total commitment to and love of this House. He had a voting record in the House that, I believe, was the best the last time I checked. I do not know whether that was out of complete loyalty to his Whip, with whom he was very friendly. He took pride in his country, particular pride in his county and party, which he was always ready to defend, even at the worst of times, and, of course, pride in his family. As late as yesterday at the meeting of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges he played an active and committed part and, again, showed clarity of mind and confidence in dealing with some tricky issues. He was a man who loved life and politics. He gave a lot to public representation. He was a model public representative in terms of commitment and taking his job seriously. He believed in this House and its contribution and what should happen in public life. He is somebody we will dearly miss. There will be time later to go into more detail on his commitment and contribution to local and national politics. In the meantime, those on these benches wish to be associated with the expressions of sympathy. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. I express our sincere condolences to his family, colleagues, friends, staff, etc.