” The hope still lives and the dream will never die” – Ted Kennedy RIP

With the sad death of Ted Kennedy an era of American politics has come to a close. He will be missed by his family, friends and his always loyal constituents. He will also be missed by the many Irish politicians both North & South who always found an open door and a welcome on Capitol Hill.
The past few weeks have been a very sad period for the entire Kennedy family, to lose a brother and sister in such a short space of time.
The void Ted Kennedy leaves in American public life may never again be filled by just one man.
As a friend of Ireland he was never slow to be critical when it was necessary, for who else but a true friend will tell you when you have done wrong and for Ireland Ted Kennedy was a true friend.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam (old Irish blessing -May his soul be on God’s right side)

A great day out , Family Day at Leinster House

Well done to Ceann Comhairle (Speaker of the House) John O’DonaoghueTD, Senator Pat Moylan, Cathaoirleach (Chairman) of the Seanad and all the Leinster House staff on a great week end in Leinster House. By opening its doors to the public it is hoped that the body politic will re-conect with the electorate. What made the occasion all the more remarkable was the fact that the public could take photographs throughout the house. The public was also allowed   into the hallowed halls of the Dail Chamber for the first time. The Leinster House staff were the model of helpfulness and courtesy. It was great to see Minister Mary Hanafin TD and Padraig McCormack TD of FG meeting and greeting the visitors, the only crib I would have is that more of their colleagues weren’t there. I believe some more TD’s were there on Sunday. To all involved take a bow, well worth repeating in the future.