John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

We discussed the upcoming Seanad election, in which we were on the same panel. In the most unusual of elections one does not really compete with individuals from other parties but with individuals within one's own party. Peter was worried, as we all are at election time. The next time I saw him was at the count with his daughter who I believe is in the Visitors Gallery. I cannot remember her name, but there was a sense of relief. Senator Bradford, Peter and I were elected after the one count as Nos. 7, 8 and 9. His family had a sense of satisfaction on his re-election. I also felt satisfaction on his election because I had followed the advice he had given to me and there was as good a scratch as any Fianna Fáil member had ever received from me. In a Seanad election every vote counts.

I am not surprised that Senators spoke about dancing because Peter was always light on his feet and tipped his toes as he went along. I remember having a deep discussion with him one day about ploughing. I have two older brothers who are farmers. My father and older brothers would never let me near a plough for fear I might do damage, but Peter decided to tell me about some of the intricacies. I am only sorry he did not tell me about some of the intricacies of dancing, as it might have been of more benefit to me. I could certainly do with some advice on the matter.