Mark Daly (Fianna Fail)
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Before I ask the Deputy Leader to outline the Order of Business, I know Senators were saddened to hear of the death last week of a former Member of this House, Larry Butler. A native of County Carlow and the son of a local lock-keeper on the canal, Larry grew up along the River Barrow and received his education through Graiguenamanagh national school. Although his life and career took him to Dublin, his heart was always in Carlow.

Larry entered public life when he was elected to Dublin County Council in 1991, representing Glencullen. Known for his work ethic and commitment to local issues, he earned a great reputation among the local community. He was re-elected to the newly established Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and served the Ballybrack electoral area. His years on the council were marked by his approachability, persistence and straightforward dedication to serving the people he represented.

In 2007, he was elected to his House on the industrial and commercial panel. It was the first time that someone from Tinnahinch represented that area since the foundation of the Oireachtas. Larry is remembered as a dedicated public servant, a friend to many and a committed community man. His legacy lives on in the people he served, the family he loved and the quiet, steady impact he made throughout his life.

Beyond his public service career, Larry had a great devotion to his family and his wife Kathleen. They shared 63 years of marriage together, a partnership marked by loyalty, affection and mutual support. On behalf of this House, I express our condolences to his wife, his children Laurence, Helen, Tom and Mary-Kate, his brother Walter and his sister Anne, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and his many family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

I ask the House to observe a minute's silence in memory of the late Larry Butler.