Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

I would also like to be associated with the tributes paid to the late Séamus Dolan. As mentioned, he was a Member of this House from 1965 until 1982. He also served in Dáil Éireann from 1961 until 1965. He was elected Cathaoirleach of the Seanad in 1977 and was Leas-Chathaoirleach from 1981 until 1982. He was a national school teacher and farmer before going into politics and was an advocate of the Irish language. I recall well meeting him and his wife, Bríd, during the Seanad election campaigns of 1977 and 1981 and had the honour of voting for him at the time. His funeral mass will continue to remain in my memory for a long time. It was a beautiful mass as Gaeilge.

On behalf of the staff and all Members of Seanad Éireann, I extend sincere sympathy to Séamus's wife, Bríd; his sons, daughters and extended family who are here today on their very sad loss.