Deputies will have learned, with deep regret, of the unexpected death, only a few short hours ago, of Deputy Patrick McGrath. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam.
Deputy McGrath first entered Dáil Éireann in a by-election in 1946 as one of the representatives of Cork City. He was elected Lord Mayor of Cork in 1952 and was re-elected in each succeeding year since. He was also a member of the Cork Harbour Board, vice-chairman of the South Cork Board of Assistance, member of the Cork County Council and of the Cork Mental Hospital Committee, member of the Board of Management of the South Charitable Infirmary and member of the Joint Committee of the Cork Sanatorium. He took a very active part in the struggle for independence, and, in recognition of his services during the period, he was honoured by his comrades of Cork City Old I.R.A. Men's Association, who appointed him chairman of their organisation. He was also associated with athletic and sporting organisation in Cork City.
The late Deputy was kind, courteous and charitable, and his sudden passing will be keenly felt by every member of this House. His constituents, in particular, will miss him, as he gave of his best in their interests and welfare during his long period in public life. He was an eloquent and forcible speaker and made many useful contributions to the debates of the Dáil on national questions.
I ask you, a Cheann Comhairle, to convey to his daughter and other relatives the sympathy of Dáil Éireann.
Deputies rose in their places.