Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I, too, would like to acknowledge the role played by my colleague, Senator Ó Clochartaigh. While he was speaking, I thought back to the first day I arrived in Leinster House for the Seanad elections. I will never forget his warmth and kindness to me. I was very anxious that day, if I remember rightly, and thought I would be out of here in an hour but I was really surprised. His warmth has spread here, through the Seanad, and such warmth always spreads. When one walks into the Chamber, one sees the smile he would always give. My colleagues in the Civil Engagement group and I definitely will miss him very much. I have said that to him already. We have worked with him on many issues, including family reunification and Travellers' issues. He will be sorely missed.

It takes great courage to do something like this. Trevor and I talked about John O'Donohue last night, and, if it is in order, a Chathaoirligh, I would like to read out the second part of a poem written by the poet, John O'Donohue. It sums up what I believe Trevor is and his courage. The poem states:

Then the delight, when your courage kindled,

And out you stepped onto new ground.

Your eyes young again with energy and dream,

A path of plentitude opening before you.

Though your destination is not yet clear

You can trust the promise of this opening;

Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning

That is at one with your life's desire.

Awaken your spirit to adventure;

Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;

Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,

For your soul senses the world that awaits you.

That sums up Trevor and I thank him for the great work he has done.

I am not sure if we will have statements on councillors' conditions tonight but if not, I wish to put on record that many councillors have contacted me and the stories they told me concerning their issues are very upsetting. One woman this morning advised she has lost her job on foot of the amount of work that she was doing as a councillor and as a result, this woman, who is a single parent, is really struggling financially. I look forward to our having statements on councillors' conditions and discussing their issues because I am very concerned about what is happening with respect to them.