Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Brennan family and Deputy Joe Carey and former Deputy Brian Walsh to the Chamber. I got to know Terry after I got elected in 2009, when I would travel to various events throughout the country. He was particularly friendly with what we in Fine Gael in Longford call the three amigos. Unfortunately, all three have passed away since. They were Councillor Gerry Brady, Councillor Paddy Belton and Councillor Victor Kiernan, who passed away just a number of weeks ago. They were particularly friendly with Terry for a long number of years and introduced him to me and, from what Terry said to me, were instrumental in encouraging him, I think, to run for the Seanad back in 2011. He canvassed all the rest of the Fine Gael members in Longford for our support for him.

I think everything has been said. He was a pure gentleman, judging from the short time I knew him, extremely friendly, courteous and a very proud Fine Gael man. He was very proud to serve in this House, and I know that his family is proud that he served his party and served his country in this House. He also served Louth, which he was extremely proud of. I myself come from a very strong GAA tradition. Coming from Longford, our success on the fields is very minimal, and Terry delighted in reminding me of that, but I easily shot back that Louth did not have too many all-Irelands either. We had great discussions over a sport that both of us loved and were involved in.

On behalf of the members of Fine Gael in Longford and my colleagues on Longford County Council, I extend our sympathies in respect of someone who was to me a gentleman, Terry Brennan.