By this time the House will have learned with deep regret of the death, which took place to-day, of Deputy Dan Desmond. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam. Although we knew he had been indisposed for some time past the news of his death came as a great shock to all of us.
The late Deputy Desmond had been a member of Cork County Council since 1945 and Secretary of the Federation of Rural Workers since 1947. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1948 and was returned at each General Election since then. He gave the greater part of his life to public affairs and he will be remembered for his dedication and devotion to his work as a public representative. His many contributions to our debates were marked by measured and deliberate argument and a reluctance to embark on extravagant statements. He always showed a desire to be fair in his criticism. His passing is a great loss not only to his Party, whom he served zealously as Deputy Leader and member of the Administrative Council, but also to this House.
I would ask you, Sir, to convey to his widow and family the deepest sympathy of Dáil Éireann.
Members rose in their places.