The House will have learned, with deep regret, of the death of Deputy Bill Murphy, go ndeana Dia trócaire ar a anam. While we knew, for some time past, that he was in failing health, and missed his cheerful, genial presence here in the House, nevertheless, the news of his death came as a shock to us all.
The son of a distinguished Fenian, he was himself a member of the IRA in the War of Independence. For more than 40 years he took a prominent part in the public life of County Clare, becoming a member of the county council in 1934. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1951.
Ever conscientious in the discharge of his parliamentary duties, and always regular in his attendance in the House, his contributions to our debates here were well informed and constructive. An outstanding personality, Deputy Murphy was of a most kind and good humoured disposition. He was a very popular member of the House, on all sides of which his death will be deeply regretted. A sincere and earnest worker, his constituents whom he served so well will miss him.
I would ask you, a Cheann Chomhairle, to convey to his family our most sincere sympathy. Suaimhneas síoraí go raibh aige.
Members rose in their places.