Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I express my sincere sympathy to Kieran's wife, Mary, his children, his mother, Delia, his extended family and his political colleagues. I met Kieran first during the previous Seanad campaign. For geographical reasons, we both visited a couple of houses of Independent councillors in County Clare and we got chatting to him. We became friends and our friendship remained. We would always have a word.

Kieran was warm, friendly, extremely sincere, good humoured and affable. He also had charisma and was a great worker on behalf of his people. On the day of his funeral, the celebrant, who I understand was a first cousin, summed up Kieran's life and work very well when he said that having exceeded the quota of good deeds, he deemed Kieran to be elected to heaven. Kieran exceeded the quota of good deeds and humour and had a great rapport with others. It was a privilege to have known him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.