Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I would also like to be associated with the many fine tributes to the late Séamus Dolan. I did not know him but I knew all about him because in the 1960s my late father, Séan Ormond, and Séamus Dolan were contesting the Seanad elections on the Labour Panel. As they were both teachers their nominations were disputed and it was argued that as members of the INTO they did not qualify for the nomination. However, the court overruled the decision and they both ran on the Labour Panel.

I heard about his contributions many times at the dinner table. I heard about his commitment to the Irish language, to education, through his role in the VECs, and to public life. I heard many stories when I was a young girl and thought about them today. I knew all about him in the early 1960s. He had huge commitment to the party and never failed to give of his best to our party and country. I am glad to be here to acknowledge the presence of his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.