Deputy Sargent has given me notice in writing that he wishes to make a personal explanation and the Chair agrees.
Personal Explanation by Member.
It has been brought to my attention that in the course of paying tribute to the late Margaret Hassan in the Dáil on 17 November 2004, I stated that she had converted to Islam. This statement was incorrect and was made in error. I would like to withdraw the statement and correct the public record by stating that Margaret Hassan did not convert to Islam. She was a committed and practising Roman Catholic until her death. I apologise for this error and take this opportunity to reiterate my deep admiration for Margaret Hassan's work and my revulsion at her murder.
Again I express on my own behalf and on behalf of An Comhaontas Glas, the Green Party in Ireland, my deepest sympathy. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.