Words cannot express the sense of loss I felt on hearing of the death of the Cathaoirleach, Senator Seán Fallon. Elected to Seanad Éireann in 1981, the same year as myself, Seán was appointed Leader of the House in 1990 and was elected Cathaoirleach in 1992. He was one of the most highly respected Senators of all time. Many qualities strike you when you think of Seán. Seán was a charismatic figure. He was a great conversationalist and a ready listener. People came to him to share their joys and troubles and for advice and reassurance. He was caring, wise, politically astute and shrewd.
He understood the ups and downs of politics. He was quick to congratulate and wish well those who were successful and equally sympathetic and understanding to those who were less fortunate. The mantle of Cathaoirleach sat lightly on his shoulders. He was a great Cathaoirleach — a natural.
He was not confrontational. His witty interventions diffused many politically explosive situations. Senators trusted his judgment and respected his rulings because they knew he was always impartial and would give fair play. Above all, he was a man of integrity, one you could trust. He was relentless in his pursuit of justice and fair play.
Seán was a great ambassador for Athlone, Seanad Éireann and Ireland. He was at ease with people at national and international levels and was highly respected among his colleagues in Europe.
He was a great athlete and sportsman. He retained his love of and interest in all sports. He was a familiar figure at Leopardstown, Shelbourne Park and Clounanna. His easy humour was infectious. He was never happier than when he was planning to play a practical joke.
I knew Seán long before either of us entered politics. We are from the same parish but from different counties. I will miss him, not alone as a Senator and politician but as a personal friend.
He was a man at peace with himself and the world. He was a great family man and loved his wife Anne and his family, Pádraic, Morgan, John and Niamh, his only daughter who held a special place in his heart. To all of his family, on your behalf and on my own, I send our sincere sympathies. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.