Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

As colleagues know, Kerrygold is synonymous with Irish butter. They may ask why I am saying that today. I join in congratulating, and I hope this House will, our internationally recognised garden designer in Kerry, our good friend, Billy Alexander, an Irish supreme horticulturist, botanist and plantsman, who this morning was awarded the highest award – the gold medal – at the Chelsea Flower Show. It was announced to the international media this morning. The former Cathaoirleach, colleague and friend, Senator Mark Daly, would be aware of Kells Bay Gardens and its significance and beauty in County Kerry. For those who do not know Kells Bay, it is close to Cahersiveen in County Kerry and is one of Ireland’s premier horticultural experiences, containing a renowned collection of tree-ferns and exotic plants grown in a unique microclimate created and impacted by the Gulf Stream. It is a great honour and the most prestigious horticultural award in the world. This is our Irish man, Billy Alexander, who brought a piece of Kerry bog and many of the subtropical plants that grow particularly in Kells Bay because of its connection with the Gulf Stream. Billy Alexander brought, shipped and flew them over, displayed them and created a master creation, which is now on exhibition in Chelsea in central London today and will remain so until the end of this week.It highlights the very significant importance of Irish horticulture internationally, international recognition of Irish expertise and, of course, our wonderful National Botanic Gardens. Of course, Bloom is in a few weeks' time. I hope many people will engage with that. I would like the House to join with me in congratulating an Irishman on bringing a piece of Kerry bog to the centre of London and receiving the most prestigious of all horticultural awards.