Seanad debates

Wednesday, 17 November 2010

Death of Member: Expressions of Sympathy

 

1:00 pm

Photo of Dan BoyleDan Boyle (Green Party)

On behalf of the Green Party, I extend my sympathy to the late Senator Kieran Phelan's wife, Mary, his children, his extended family and his Fianna Fáil colleagues. Several speakers referred to Kieran's affability and good humour. These are qualities by which many would define him but his commitment to this House should also be stressed. He was party spokesman on defence, an area in which not much legislation is debated in this Chamber, and he was a full participant in every other aspect of the Seanad's business. Mention has been made of his voting record, his daily attendance on the Order of Business and his membership of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. I do not think anyone in this House can match that level of commitment and he stands as an example which will live long after his presence in this Chamber. His family can take a great deal of pride in the fact that he contributed not only to this House but also to his own local authority as chair and member of Laois County Council.

Alongside the great affability to which other speakers referred, there was a sense that Kieran possessed a steely strength that perhaps belied his good humour even though few, if anybody ever saw it. He needed that strength of character to suffer the slings and arrows of public life in local government and this House. We are the poorer for his departure but I hope his family takes solace from the sincere words being spoken by Senators. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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