Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

Like other Senators, I would like to express my sincere sympathy to Mary Phelan, the children of the late Kieran Phelan, his brothers and sisters, his mother Delia and his extended family.

Kieran and I had two things in common. He was the eldest of a family of 18, whereas I am the youngest of a family of 15. He would always say "you know Glynn, I am a few lengths ahead of you". That was a joke between us.

I first got to know Kieran in the early 1990s after he became a member of Laois County Council. He was a very friendly and warm person. He would make one feel that he had known one all his life. He often used the phrase "my best friend". He made one feel that he was one's best friend.

It has already been alluded to that he had a number of loves in his life, including his wife, Mary; his five children; his mother; and his brothers and sisters. Of course, he had a great love of farming. He was a dream for Senator Wilson and me in the Whip's office. We never had to worry about him. He was always sitting in his chair, which was right behind me. The chair is vacant today. That is to be regretted. He loved his party. He loved farming. He loved people.

Kieran Phelan was a giver. He gave of himself, without condition and without expecting anything back. He epitomised generosity. Along with a number of colleagues, I met him a number of years ago at a conference in Tralee. I will not tell any tales out of school, other than to say my sides were sore the following day. When Kieran was in full flight, one would think he may have missed a great opportunity in life, as he would have been a great comedian. He was very funny and had a great wit.

It has been mentioned that he was continuing a family tradition when he became a member of Laois County Council in 1991. His late father, Paddy, was also a member of the council. I am well acquainted with his brother, Brendan, who is an articulate and strong party politician. He is continuing the proud tradition of the Phelan family.

Kieran spent many hours in this House. Senators Wilson and Cassidy have referred to his many strong points. Kieran Phelan left a strong mark in this House in terms of his sincerity and loyalty. He was constant in that regard.

Fear macánta, dílis agus díograiseach ab ea é. I am deeply saddened by his passing. I considered him a great friend. He will be sadly missed in this House and especially by his wife and family, whom he loved so dearly. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.