Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will split my time with Senator Leyden who served with the late former Senator Maurice Hayes. I welcome the Hayes family to the Chamber. I convey my condolences and those of the Fianna Fáil group to them on the passing of their father, grandfather and husband. We are here to pay tribute to him and his distinguished career. I did not know him, but after my research, I am struck by the fact that he was an academic, a father, a sportsman and a politician. He seemed to have it all and was well rounded. I have been speaking to many colleagues and some of the staff in Leinster House and asking them for their thoughts and recollections of Maurice Hayes. It has been said he was a genuine man who was great to deal with. What they really remembered was his contribution to Northern Irish politics, all of his hard work and the massive contribution and sacrifices he had made personally in his career. The Leader mentioned his huge contribution to the Patten commission on the future of policing in Northern Ireland and the review of Tallaght Hospital, but he was also a noted journalist. Clearly he had a huge grá for Ireland and spent so much of his time writing reports and articles. His love of the country was clear from all of his achievements throughout his life. I am married to a northerner from County Donegal where Gaelic football is such a huge part of life. It seems Maurice Hayes excelled as a hurler. My family in County Donegal are all footballers. Maurice Hayes seemed to be a man with a plan when it came to ensuring success, not just in sport but in all aspects of his life. I refer to his academic life and gaining a PhD, as well as to his very successful political career. I again convey my condolences to his family. I am happy to pay tribute to him.