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Seanad
‹ Order of Business

John Blennerhassett condolences

Summary

Senator Coghlan supports the vote of sympathy for former Senator John Blennerhassett, recalls his public service and extends condolences to his family; surrounding contributions also praise Culture Night.

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I second and support fully the vote of sympathy proposed by the Leader of the House on the death of the late Senator John Blennerhassett of Tralee.

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He was from an outstanding Kerry family, the Blennerhassetts, and he was a long-time councillor.

I knew him well, as did Senator Ned O'Sullivan and others. He was a true gentleman, a man who served his people well. He always listened, genuinely and politely. He served his church, vestry and, at diocesan level, synod. I extend my deepest sympathy to Veda and his family.

Culture Night has been mentioned and I support what has been said about it by Senator Ivana Bacik. It was wonderful night, not just in the capital city but also throughout the country. We had some wonderful events in Killarney. A true replica of the Annals of Innisfallen was put on display in the library. The annals are famous, written in the 11th century by monks who lived on the island on that lake of learning. There was also a wonderful event in the offices of the Department in Killarney. In the Malton Hotel there was a lovely talk on the great veteran of the Second World War, the late Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty. I heard the Leader of the House speak and it is hard to follow him when he is in full flow, but I was described by him, amusingly, as a veteran of the House, although that is beside the point. The cultural event I enjoyed most was held in the Frank Lewis Gallery on Bridewell Lane in Killarney where I saw something I had not seen for years. I saw a magician perform. He was called Silvano and-----

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Is the Senator calling for a debate on the issue?

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I want to enlighten Senators.

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The man mentioned literally makes things disappear.

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Enda Kenny, perhaps.

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I would like to bring him here because there are a few people on whom I would like him to perform in both Houses.

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He would leave Houdini in the ha'penny place.

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