Breeda Moynihan-Cronin (Kerry South, Labour)
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Question 84: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he and the Irish people have offered their sympathy to the US ambassador to Ireland on the death of Ms Rosa Parks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33510/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I was saddened to learn of the death of Rosa Parks on 24 October last at the age of 92. A formal message of condolence has not been sent to the US ambassador as this would usually be the practice only in the case of current or former office holders. I am pleased, however, to have this opportunity to record the Government's admiration for her remarkable contribution as a civil rights pioneer.

Ms Parks's place of honour in the history of the United States is rightly guaranteed. Her courage in the face of injustice contributed to the emergence of a more fair and equal society. It also influenced others far beyond the United States. All of us who value justice, liberty and equality are grateful for the life and example of this extraordinary individual.