Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Leader of the House I am privileged to say some brief words about the exceptional man who was Seamus Heaney. I would like to extend my sincere sympathy and the sincere sympathies and condolences of all Members of Seanad Éireann to Marie and her children. We are delighted that you are here this afternoon to share this occasion with us.

Many people will have shared the shock last August when we heard the sad news of Seamus's passing. So much has been said of him since then reminding us, lest we forget, about the impact of his work not only on the people of this island but around the globe. His true appeal was his inimitable ability to touch a chord with all levels of society. It is only right and fitting, therefore, that we remember Seamus here in Seanad Éireann today.

Fintan O'Toole wrote a rather fitting article in The Irish Times in which he noted how, throughout Seamus's poetry, we are reminded that Ireland is at first a culture before it is an economy. Given the experiences we have been through in the past number of years we, as a people, should continue to remember that.

On my journey home to Waterford after Seamus's passing I listened to the radio where contributors from all over the world spoke warmly of Seamus and of his work. It brought home to me, if we did not know it already, that this was an exceptional man who was revered by all who knew him and whose work will continue to inspire generations into the future.

I would like to thank the Minister, Deputy Deenihan, for being present here today and all my Seanad colleagues for the heartfelt and genuine tributes to Seamus Heaney. On this day, before the people of Ireland decide whether Seanad Éireann should continue or not, I am proud of the contributions of Members of the House this afternoon and I hope we did some justice to the memory of an exceptional man of our time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.