I pay tribute to Fr. Gerry Reynolds who died in Belfast this day last week. He was an architect of the peace process, promoting cross community links in Belfast, in particular with the Fitzroy Presbyterian community of the Reverend Ken Newell. He crossed the peace line to worship with Presbyterians, Methodists and members of the Church of Ireland to make Clonard the cradle of the peace process. The work of people in Clonard, Corrymeela and Glencree is most valuable as we push into the past the history of enmity between religions in Ireland. People like Fr. Reynolds shine like a beacon in that process. I thank the rector of the monastery for making Clonard a centre of the peace process and all those who work tirelessly to promote better community relations in Northern Ireland.

I echo Senator Sean D. Barrett's comments about Fr. Gerry Reynolds. He was a champion of dialogue in relation to obtaining peace. I knew him and I am deeply saddened at his death.

I also echo the comments of Senators Marie Moloney and Michael Comiskey on the recent storms and pay tribute to members of the emergency services who worked hard in the past week to keep people safe. I convey my condolences to the family of Ivan Vaughan, the 70 year old man from County Tyrone who died as a result of being swept away in floodwaters in County Monaghan at the weekend. Storm Desmond has wreaked havoc across the country and many people have been affected. Coming so close to Christmas, it is a cruel blow for Mr. Vaughan's relatives. I send good wishes to the 14 year old rescued from the sea at Hook Head who remains in a critical condition. It is welcome that the Government will consider today an aid package for those affected by the storm and that the Department of Social Protection is overseeing hardship payments to those in need. Weather conditions are outside the Government's control. Will the Leader ask for an update from the relevant Departments as to what contingency plans will be put in place for the forthcoming expected bad weather, particularly in those counties expected to be hit the hardest because without a contingency plan agencies will continue to fire-fight?