My first duty as Cathaoirleach is a sad one. I have to announce the death of Senator Jack Garrett who lost his life so tragically and before he could take his seat with us today at this first meeting of the new Seanad.
Jack Garrett was elected to Seanad Éireann in 1969, re-elected in 1973 and once again was returned at the recent Seanad general election. On each occasion he was elected on the Administrative Panel for which his career in public administration so fully qualified him. He was identified as a man who had devoted his life to the community he represented and his career in local government administration is evidence of his deep sense of commitment to and involvement in local affairs.
He was a member of Mayo County Council since 1950 and had the distinction of serving as its chairman from 1967 to 1973—an office to which he was unanimously elected. He also served on the Mayo Old Age Pension Committee, the Housing Committee, the Agricultural Committee, the Health Committee and the Itinerant Housing Committee.
The late Senator's contributions to the debates in this House were forthright and uncompromising and they reflected the sturdy independence of his rural background. He was a popular man, generous and good humoured and his passing is our loss.
On your behalf and my own I shall express to Mrs. Garrett and the family our heartfelt sympathy and our appreciation of his services to this House.
I bhFlaitheas Dé go raibh a anam.
Senators rose in their places.