Before I call the Leader to announce the Order of Business, Members will have been saddened to hear of the death Tony McKenna, of a former Member of this House and a former county councillor. Tony was born in Borrisokane in 1939. He spent some of his early years in UCD. He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1965 and pursued a postgraduate diploma in remedial education. This reflected his lifelong belief in access to education for all. Tony was a vocational teacher who touched countless lives. His leadership role in vocational education demonstrated his determination, as chair of North Tipperary Vocational Education Committee and, later, as senior vice president of the Irish Vocational Education Association, to create opportunities for students all across north Tipperary and beyond. Tony championed innovation and inclusion for all in education.

Tony's commitment to public service extended beyond the classroom. He served with distinction on North Tipperary County Council, and his leadership qualities quickly became evident. He rose to the position of cathaoirleach and, later, mayor of Tipperary County Council. He worked tirelessly to represent his community and advance local development. In 1987, Tony was elected to Seanad Éireann from the Cultural and Educational Panel, which, by any measure, is some achievement in light of how high the quota is on that panel, as some Members - at least five - will know. He served in the 18th Seanad and, as a Taoiseach's nominee, in the 19th Seanad. He was a proud supporter of an teanga Ghaeilge, of heritage and of founding innovations that enriched his local community and the nation. Tony made a deep personal commitment to culture and education, which were cornerstones of his beliefs.

Tony's energy and creativity were legendary. In 1982, he undertook a 140-mile run while soloing a sliotar . He went from Borrisokane through every town in Tipperary - he should have run for President with that kind of commitment - and on to Dublin to raise funds for a day care centre. This remarkable feat, completed over seven days, was a testament to his determination and compassion. Tony's efforts highlighted his ability to inspire action and bring attention to important issues. Throughout his life, Tony McKenna exemplified the very best of public service. He was a man of vision and action whose legacy will endure in the institutions he strengthened, the cultural initiatives he championed and the countless lives he touched.

On behalf of this House, I offer deepest condolences and sympathies to his daughter, Deirdre, sons, Malachy and Tony, his sister, Philomena, his grandchildren and all his extended family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. I ask Members to be upstanding for a minute's silence.