Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Along with colleagues who have paid tribute to a number of former Members of this House who have passed away in recent times, I offer condolences to the families of Michael O'Kennedy and, closer to home for myself, Jimmy Leonard. Jimmy was a Member of this House for a period and a Member of the Lower House for many years. He served the people of Monaghan and the Cavan-Monaghan constituency and was totally dedicated to their cause. He entered politics as a member of Monaghan County Council, a position he held for many years. He worked in the local co-operative, which was where he had his roots and from where he set out building a career for himself in both local and national politics. The phrase that best describes Jimmy Leonard is "a true gentleman". He was a real man of the people who served all of the people regardless of who they were, what they were or their political backgrounds. The legacy he leaves behind him is one of years of dedicated service to the people of Monaghan and, indeed, County Cavan as well. It was with great sadness that we learned of his passing. His beloved wife, Tess, was by his side throughout their long years of marriage and was a great aid to him politically. He had three sons and two daughters, one of whom, Ann, was also a Member of this House for a time. I would like to extend a vote of sympathy to the entire Leonard family and to the O'Kennedy family as well.