Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are here to commemorate the passing of Martin McGuinness. I believe it is safe to say all of us present in the Chamber, even though we are from different political traditions, love our country and want the best for it and its people, North and South. It is also fair to say the British did not treat the Irish, North and South, very well, as history tells us. People took different paths and, at least at the beginning of his career, Martin took the path to violence. Others chose peaceful means. Objectively, he was a man who inflicted and oversaw a campaign of murder and pain in the name of a cause. Thankfully, he went on to correct it. He took the correct path to ensure future generations would not have to go down the path to violence. He also helped to create the environment that allowed people on this island to live in peace. He played a major role in the peace process and we have to acknowledge and be very grateful for what he did. It showed considerable bravery on his part to step away from the vicious cycle of violence. His legacy will be best served by the continuation of the peace process.

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh talked about truth and reconciliation. There has to be truth for victims on all sides to find a sense of justice. Truth is the foundation of justice and leads to reconciliation, as has happened in many countries to good effect. I would definitely support such a process.

At a human level, we are all judged on the context and times that were in it.I would acknowledge the times and the environment in which he lived. The Bogside in Derry was very difficult. That gives context to his actions and early career.

It is better to remember not how that political career began but how it ended. I pay tribute to him and to his memory for that. May he rest in peace. I join in the expressions of sympathy and condolence to his family on their very considerable personal loss at this time.