Alex White (Labour)

On behalf of the Labour Party, I extend my sympathy to the family of the late Senator Kieran Phelan, as well as to the Fianna Fáil Party, the Leader and the Cathaoirleach on the loss of a close friend and associate. This is not a partisan occasion and I am saddened but privileged to have an opportunity to honour a true colleague with whom I worked for several years in the Seanad. We are often advised not to react immediately to events but we responded briefly on 26 May because, as Senator Fitzgerald noted, there was genuine shock at the suddenness of Kieran's passing. I made an off the cuff remark on that occasion to the effect that Kieran was impossible to dislike. Sometimes the remarks we make spontaneously are the ones we really mean, even in this business.

He had huge warmth but, in addition to being very personable and likeable, he exercised sharp political judgment. I was a member of the committee to which an earlier speaker referred and, if I am not mistaken, we met the day before Senator Phelan's untimely death. I cannot remember the precise nature of the issue we discussed but I recall it was a source of contention. Kieran was a man of relatively few words but they were well chosen and he expressed astute views on the issues that came before him.

The Leader spoke eloquently about the great public service Kieran Phelan gave to his county and his country. In the short period that I knew Senator Phelan, I witnessed his sense of commitment in action. He was tenacious in his work on behalf of constituents and on the national canvass.

I regret the passing of Kieran Phelan. He is sorely missed in this House and I extend my sympathies to the Fianna Fáil Party and, in particular, to his family members who are gathered here. It is our sad privilege to honour his contribution to this House.