Mike Kennelly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Last Thursday morning, on 2 April, it was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of a former Kerry Gaelic footballer and iconic Gaelic football manager, the great Mick O'Dwyer. Micko was king of the Kingdom and sprinkled some of his gold dust, wisdom and love of Gaelic football on other counties and places beyond with great success, leading his teams with unmatched passion and inspiring countless Gaelic football supporters and teammates alike. As a top-class footballer, the Waterville and south Kerry star won four all-Ireland medals with his beloved Kerry and was named footballer of the year in 1969. However, the king was not finished. He became the Kerry senior football manager in 1975 and went on to have an enormously successful career in that role, leading a team of legends to eight all-Ireland titles from 1975 to 1986, a period fondly remembered as Kerry's golden years. It was the greatest football team ever.

Micko subsequently spread his love of football with great success in Kildare, Laois, Wicklow and Clare. Micko was not just a manager; he was also a leader, motivator and man who breathed football. His passion, knowledge and ability to inspire were unmatched. His impact on Gaelic football was immeasurable and his legacy will live on forever in the hearts of all GAA fans in Kerry and, indeed, beyond. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and the wider GAA family at this sad time. Rest in peace, Micko. Your extraordinary legacy will forever be remembered.

I formally propose a minute's silence in the Seanad in memory of the great Mick O'Dwyer.