Tributes were paid to the late Ms Patsy Lawlor, who served briefly in the Seanad a decade and a half ago, and to an ex-minister, Mr Jim Gibbons, who was a central figure in the Arms Crisis of 1970.
The House Leader, Mr Donie Cassidy, said Ms Lawlor had displayed a tremendous commitment in her role as a representative of the people of Kildare. "It has been said that every generation produces a uniquely gifted and talented person. I believe that Patsy Lawlor was such a person."
On behalf of Fine Gael, the Cathaoirleach, Mr Liam Cosgrave, extended sympathy to the Lawlor and Gibbons families. He said his former colleague had used her qualities to the full on behalf of the people of Kildare.
A most remarkable personality, she had had a great enthusiasm for whatever task she had in hand and her life had been particularly dedicated to the welfare of the less-well-off in society. She had worked tirelessly on behalf of a number of bodies and had rendered distinguished service to the Arts Council.
Mr John Dardis (PD) expressed sympathy with the family of Mr Gibbons, whose son Jim Jnr is currently a member of the Upper House. "We mourn the passing of a patriotic Irishman of the very first rank, a representative who gave outstanding public service, a dedicated and effective government minister and a person of shining and fearless integrity," he said.