The House will have learned with the deepest regret of the death of one of its most distinguished members, Deputy Patrick Hogan of Clare. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.
From his boyhood years, Paddy Hogan, as he was affectionately known, was actively interested in national affairs. The struggle for Independence, the language revival movement, the trade union movement—every worthy cause calculated to serve the Nation best and especially the best interests of the workers and small farmers—all these could count on the sincere and dedicated support of Paddy Hogan. The breadth of his interests was demonstrated by his membership of the Gaeltacht Commission and of the Irish Tourist Association. The fact that he was able, amidst all these activities, to become a successful writer in the best traditions of our literature was a tribute both to his spirit and to his abilities.
During the many years in which, as Leas-Cheann Comhairle and Ceann Comhairle, he presided over the deliberations of Dáil Éireann, the late Deputy Hogan showed the sense of sound judgment and fair play and the deep legal knowledge which characterised his long career of devoted public service and which won him the affection and respect of all who were privileged to know him and to work with him.
The late Deputy Hogan set an outstanding example of patriotic public service and integrity which has considerably enriched public life and which must always remain as an inspiration to us all.
I ask you, a Cheann Comhairle, to convey to the late Deputy's family the sincere sympathy and deep regret which every member of the House feels at the passing of one of its most highly respected and popular members.
Suaimhneas na bhFhlaitheas dá anam uasal, dílis agus solás ó Dhia dá chlann agus dá chairde gaoil.
Members rose in their places.