Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Leader of the House I am privileged to pay tribute to the late Martin Joe O'Toole, former Deputy and Senator. He sadly passed away last October. I wish to express my sincere sympathies to his family, to his sons and daughters, his wider family circle and many friends, some of whom are with us today. Martin had a long and distinguished public life serving as a Deputy from 1989 to 1992 and as a Senator from 1977 to 1989. He was also a member and cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council from 1955, serving on the council for over 40 years, making him one of the longest serving public representatives in Ireland and an example of his long-standing dedication to the people of Mayo.

Martin J. O'Toole was always keen to support projects for Mayo and his own community. As a member of the Seanad agricultural panel and as a livestock exporter, Martin Joe was deeply committed to and passionate about agricultural affairs and the agricultural community throughout his public life. He would never pass up an opportunity to speak in support of the cause of Irish farmers and the agricultural industry. He had a deep understanding of the concerns and problems of farmers.

While his commitment to the agri-sector was always his top priority, he was also a great advocate for regional development, various forms of job creation, tourism development and infrastructural development. He was a great champion of Knock Airport as Senator Leyden mentioned and led the intercounty rail committee for several years, campaigning for the re-opening of the western corridor. I am sure that he welcomed the advances in that regard in recent years.

A large crowd attended his funeral in Louisburgh last October, including many current and former officeholders and a wide circle of friends and family who he cherished deeply. As such, I would like to express my sincere sympathies again to his family, who are with us in the Chamber today, to his Fianna Fáil colleagues and, indeed, the Fianna Fáil Party, which he served with honour and distinction in his lifetime of public service. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.