Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Or even an Seanadóir Traolach Ó Loideáin. Cuirim fáilte roimh Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh. Níl móran Gaeilge agam. In 1982, when I was appointed as Minister of State by Charles J. Haughey, I spent many weeks travelling to Dublin to do a Gael-Linn course. I was very conscious of the fact that my Irish was not up to standard. I had a driver who spoke fluent Irish, so I used to be briefed before I went into functions so that I could speak as much Gaeilge as possible. Fortunately, my wife Mary, my daughter Orla and my granddaughter speak very good Irish. Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh has brought Irish to the fore. Many years ago, RTÉ had a very good Irish-language programme that he might recall. He has done a tremendous amount for the Irish language and for sport. He is basically an icon. I am delighted that he has been given this honour in the Seanad today. As I reflected on what he said, I wondered why, after all these years, Mr. Ó Muircheartaigh has not been made a Senator. He would be a fantastic ambassador here. I am sure Senator Ó Céidigh will decide to give up his seat. Maybe Deputy Micheál Martin will appoint Mr. Ó Muircheartaigh as well. No greater love can one give.