As Leader of the House and on behalf of the Fianna Fáil Party, I express our sympathy on the sad death of Paddy McGrath, a former Member of the House, who passed away yesterday. He was a Member of Seanad Éireann from 1973 to 1977 and will be best remembered as one of the country's best known businessmen. He was also a leading figure in the horseracing world and a director of a number of very well known national and international companies. He will be particularly remembered for his involvement in the Irish Hospitals Sweepstake, the hugely successful lottery which helped to fund many hospitals for many decades. However, it is in connection with Waterford Glass that he will be most remembered. Paddy McGrath became involved in the Waterford Glass Company during a time when the glass industry was dormant and was instrumental in Waterford Crystal becoming one of the world's most famous brand names. He was made a freeman of Waterford city and, among other honours, was a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great.
On behalf of all Members of the House and on behalf of my party, I extend our sympathy to the late Mr. McGrath's wife, Anna, his sons, Paul, Patrick, Neil and Roderick, his daughter, Jane, and his beloved grandchildren, to all of whom we offer our deepest sympathy. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam.