Dan Boyle (Green Party)

On behalf of the Green Party-Comhaontas Glas, I extend my sympathy to the family of Senator Séamus Dolan and acknowledge his achievements as a former Member of the House. At a time when those of us in politics have shorter careers and the turnover of membership of the House is greater, those who were here before and for longer periods of time should have their contributions especially marked. From what I have learned of Senator Dolan and of those with whom he associated politically, his particular political interest was the need for Ireland to reach out to the wider world. Coming from a part of the country where emigration was probably more marked than others, he worked both to achieve infrastructural improvements, as has been mentioned, and to further the role of Ireland as a contributor to international debate and organisations. For that he should be acknowledged.

On the other hand, we need to remember the contributions of past Members and to mark them, especially at a time when politics is at a low ebb and public affection for it is virtually non-existent. We must acknowledge the contribution of Members who were here at a time when politics was seen to deliver more effectively, partly because of their efforts and the longevity of their involvement in politics. They represent a degree of public sacrifice that is not understood or accepted in political life today and, therefore, the House should pay tribute to Senator Séamus Dolan and those who worked with him in achieving for this country. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.