Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As we know, life is a very precious thing. We know also that it can change dramatically in the blink of an eye. Last Sunday, I attended the Ulster football final in Clones between Donegal and Cavan.Approximately an hour before kick-off, supporters gathered outside the stadium. There was banter and a sense of giddy excitement in anticipation of the game ahead, but news then began to filter through from Donegal about the tragic death of Manus Kelly at the early age of 41, killed during the Fanad stage of the Donegal International Rally. This morning, I attended the wake at the family home in Glenswilly, which is only four or five miles from my family home. One could almost reach out and touch the sense of loss, devastation, darkness and sadness that fell over that community.

Manus "Mandy" Kelly had many outstanding qualities. When he walked into a room, his smile said it all. He was a very successful businessman and an exceptional sportsman. He won the Donegal International Rally for the past three years and, this year, was going for four in a row. He was an avid GAA supporter and player. He managed the junior B team of his local Glenswilly GAA club to a county title in 2016. Four weeks ago, he was elected to Donegal County Council at the first time of asking as a Fianna Fáil councillor.

I have no doubt that the Glenswilly, GAA, rally, business and political communities will wrap their arms around the Kelly family during the difficult days, weeks and months that lie ahead. I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to his wife, Bernie, their five children, his father, Donal, his mother, Jacqueline, and all his siblings and extended family. I wish to reassure the Kelly family that they will remain in the thoughts and prayers of those in this Chamber for the weeks and months ahead. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.