Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

My duty today is a sad one. In accordance with Standing Order 151, I must announce to the House the death of our esteemed colleague, Senator Kieran Phelan. His sudden and untimely death has shocked and saddened everyone. As a personal friend, I am very aware of the impact of this announcement to his many friends and colleagues in Leinster House. Kieran's integrity, calm demeanour and unfailing sense of humour made him one of the most popular Members of the House and won him the respect and friendship of Members from all parties and groups.

I first knew Kieran when he was a member of Laois County Council, on which he served the people of County Laois for many years. He was elected to the Industrial and Commercial Panel of Seanad Éireann in 2002 and again in 2007 as a nominee of the Irish Country Houses and Restaurants Association. As a temporary Chairman, he regularly presided over sittings of the House, during which his sense of fairness and procedural knowledge was very obvious. To his wife, Mary, and all his family and friends, I extend my sincere sympathy.

I now call on group leaders to make their expressions of sympathy. Other Senators will have an opportunity to contribute when formal tributes are made to the late Senator Phelan at a later date.