It is with very deep regret I announce to the House the death, during the Recess, of our friend and colleague, Senator Professor Barniville. I bhFlaitheas Dé go raibh a anam.
In the passing of Senator Barniville, Ireland has lost one of her most distinguished sons and the medical profession one of its most prominent surgeons. Over the years his name has become a household legend and many will mourn his loss, particularly those members of the Old I.R.A. who owe their lives to him as a result of his skill, attention and protection during the War of Independence. His quiet, gentle and charming manner endeared him to all with whom he came in contact. His personality and his sense of humour made him popular with all the members of the Oireachtas, irrespective of their political ties. For a man who had spent so many years in the public life of this country, the best tribute I could pay to him is to say that some of his greatest friends and admirers were amongst those who differed from him in their political outlook.
The late Senator, after a brilliant academic career, was first appointed in 1911 as Resident Surgeon to the Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Dublin. His long association with the Mater Hospital had become a sort of a tradition, so much so that one could not think of the name Barniville without thinking of it—they had become almost synonymous. In 1928 he was appointed to the Chair of Surgery in University College, Dublin, where, as a teacher, he displayed outstanding talents. The personal interest he took in his students, upon whom he had a profound influence, is reflected in the manner in which he was returned unfailingly to this House, of which he was a member from its inception in 1922.
To the widow and relatives of the late Senator, I shall convey on your behalf and on my own, our sympathy and appreciation.
Senators rose in their places.