Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am privileged to lead the tributes today to the late Eamon de Buitléar, former Senator, who passed away earlier this year. I wish to express my sincere sympathy and that of the House to his wife, Lailli, who is here with us today and to his five children, Aoife, Éanna, Róisín, Cian and Doireann.

Eamon, a custodian of the Irish language, was appointed to Seanad Éireann in 1987 in acknowledgement of his dedication to, and avid interest in, environmental issues and the Irish language. Alongside his appointment to this House, he also served on the Heritage Council of Ireland and the Central Fisheries Board. Foremost, however, Eamon was one of Ireland's best known wildlife film makers and an accomplished author of books on natural history. Eamon's pride in his Irish roots was illustrated throughout his works and I am sure there are not many people who have not seen at least one of his films or read one of his beautifully-written books.

Those of us who are old enough will remember his weekly wildlife programme on RTE, "Amuigh Faoin Spéir". I certainly remember it and believe it had a weighty influence on our attitudes to environmental issues in Ireland. Throughout much of his film production and writing, his passion for the need to preserve and protect the Irish language, heritage and wildlife was always reflected with genuine concern.

As well as public affairs, writing and film making, Eamon also pursued a deep love of traditional Irish music and was an accomplished mouth organ and button accordion player. He was also a founder member of Seán Ó Riada's Ceoltóirí Chualann. I believe it was not unknown for Eamon to take out his mouth organ and play a little tune when contributing to various radio programmes over the years. I was heartened to learn that not long before his passing, Eamon had donated his entire collection of film, music and writings to the National University of Ireland in Galway. That act demonstrated his deep love and passion for Irish culture and heritage. It is very fitting that the works of one of Ireland's greatest wildlife enthusiasts should be preserved in this way.

Eamon had a great love for children and his family. Again, I would like to extend my condolences to his wife. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.