Before I announce the matters on the Adjournment, I feel it is the wish of all Members that we should note with sadness the death yesterday of Micheál Crannitch, a former Cathaoirleach and distinguished Member of the Seanad, and extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Kathleen, and the other members of his family.
When I became a Member of the House in 1981, Micheál Crannitch was then one of its most respected Members. He had a great affection for the House. He was a great lover of the Irish language, Irish culture and Irish traditional music. Of course, he spent many years teaching and for that reason I have a special affinity with him. It was a great shock to learn this morning of his death because I spoke to him in Cork recently at the funeral of his great friend, the late Jack Lynch. I commented to him that day that I had never seen him looking better, even though he had a good, long life. It was always a great pleasure to meet Micheál Crannitch and even since he retired as a Member he took a great interest in the House and all its Members. He always inquired about the people with whom he served. I extend on my own behalf and on behalf of the House our deepest sympathy to his wife and family. I know that the leaders of the various groups wish to join me in a tribute to the late Micheál Crannitch.