The House will have learned with profound shock and the deepest sorrow of the sudden and untimely death of Deputy Don Davern, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.
The dedication, the integrity, the talent and the ability needed to pursue and to shape a distinguished and fruitful public career—all these Don Davern had in abundance. From his boyhood years it became evident that, following a long and proud family tradition of patriotic service to Ireland, Don Davern's career also lay in public life. His deep interest in, and the keen intellect which he brought to bear on the problems of rural Ireland and, in particular, those relating to agriculture and education; his deep concern for the poorer sections of the community; the selfless dedication and boundless energy which attracted him to such worthy causes as the care of mentally-handicapped children; the deep sense of patriotism which brought him into the ranks of the FCA as a boy of sixteen —these were some of the great qualities which distinguished Don Davern. They endeared him to all who knew and admired him. They were the qualities of leadership.
During his short three and a half years membership of Dáil Éireann and his even shorter period as a Parliamentary Secretary, Don Davern displayed the highest administrative ability and Parliamentary skill.
That death should take him in the prime of life is a tragic end to all too brief a career, so full of great promise. Always gay and good-humoured Don Davern proved a most loyal colleague and sincere friend. He typified what was best in young Ireland. Ireland can ill-afford his loss. Tipperary was never short of patriotic sons. To its Roll of Honour it can add Don Davern's name with pride.
I ask you, a Cheann Comhairle, to convey to his young widow, now so tragically bereaved, to his mother, and to his father who was, himself, over a long period, such a distinguished and respected member of the Dáil, and to the other members of the family, the heartfelt sympathy of every Member of the House.
Go dtuga Dia na trocaire sólás doibh uilig ina mbrón agus ina mbris agus go dtuga Sé suaimhneas síorraí d'anam an té a cailleadh i mblath na hóige.
Members rose in their places.