Tairgim:—
Go ndéanfaidh Dáil Éireann comhbhrón diachrach le Rí-Theaghlach, Parliamint agus pobal na Breataine taoi bhás A Shoilse an Rí Seoirse VI.
I move:—
That Dáil Éireann extend its deep sympathy to the Royal Family, the Parliament and the people of Britain on the death of His Majesty King George VI.
In a constitutional monarchy the Sovereign, bound to act as his Ministers advise him, has but little opportunity for personal distinction in the open field of politics and statesmanship, though he may in private, by wise counsel and prudent persuasion, greatly influence the framing of State policy and its day-to-day execution.
His distinction has to be won otherwise: by the public example he gives and the standards which he sets, in his family life, in his devotion to duty, in the courage with which he faces the changing fortunes of life, in the extent to which he makes himself a worthy symbol of his people, a rallying point for them in times of danger, and a bond of union in times of adversity.
It was by such standards that the peoples of Britain had to judge their late Sovereign, and they never found him wanting. He grew accordingly in their affections as the years went by. They now mourn his loss. We wish to tender to them a neighbourly understanding, and a neighbourly sympathy.
Agreed.
Deputies rose in their places.