A Cheann Comhairle, it was my sad duty, last night, to move the adjournment of the Dáil, when news reached us of the death, within the precincts of the House, of Deputy Dr. Francis Humphreys, go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam. It is my equally sad duty now, on the resumption of business, to ask the members of the Dáil to join me in paying a tribute to the memory of the late Deputy.
Dr. Humphreys was first elected to the Dáil in 1932 for the Carlow-Kilkenny constituency, was re-elected for that constituency at the General Election of 1937 and remained a Deputy for Carlow-Kilkenny and, subsequently, for Carlow-Kildare until 1948. He was re-elected for the Carlow-Kilkenny constituency in 1951 and again at the last General Election in 1957.
Dr. Humphreys was a sincere man who never sought the limelight but whose loyalty to the political principles in which he believed was unshakable and who served his constituency with the same constancy which he showed in his regular attendance here. His kindly, gentle nature and his friendly personality endeared him to everyone who knew him. His colleagues in the House, as well as his constituents, will long remember his unselfish readiness to help them. They always knew that they could seek his aid and advice in the full confidence that he would unfailingly and generously respond. Wise, practical and considerate in all things, he carried out, with meticulous care, the duties of his public and professional life.
We mourn Dr. Humphreys' passing in such sad circumstances, and we will all greatly miss him. I should like to ask you, a Cheann Comhairle, to convey to his widow and family an expression of our deepest sympathy.
Members rose in their places.