Vincent P Martin (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I join those commending the Leader on arranging a most appropriate minute's silence for the late Private Seán Rooney. On behalf of the Green Party, an Comhaontas Glas, I convey our deepest sympathies to the family of Private Rooney, his counterpart from Ireland who was injured and the other soldiers who are not from Ireland and who were also injured in the attack. We have praised the Defence Forces on a number of occasions in this House. We reminded ourselves that they put themselves in harm's way. I recall that on a number of occasions we recognised the invaluable, brave and courageous work of Óglaigh na hÉireann. It is so poignant when we suffer the loss of someone from that wonderful family of Óglaigh na hÉireann and when a member of the Defence Forces who is trying to make this world a better place pays the ultimate price. On behalf of the Green Party, I offer my deepest sympathies to all his family and to the greater Óglaigh na hÉireann family.

I am acutely aware of the value of Óglaigh na hÉireann, particularly as I come from Kildare. I am sure my party is no different from any other party in Kildare and around Ireland in that we have a number of direct connections with the Army and with retired people who have served a number of tours of duty in Lebanon and other places and who are part of the democratic process and living the next chapter of their lives. I am sure that is replicated throughout Ireland but nowhere more is that so amplified than in Kildare, where there is such a rich tradition in the Defence Forces.

On behalf of my group, I thank the staff, led by Mr. Groves and Bridget, and all concerned for their wonderful and dedicated public service in making this place so efficient. I also thank the Cathaoirleach, the Leader and all those in positions of responsibility. We are all in positions of responsibility. We made the place work so seamlessly for the past 12 months and we got through a great deal of work. I wish everyone the season's greetings.