It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Brian Crowley.
Brian was a hugely impressive individual. Coming from a family steeped in public service, Taoiseach Albert Reynolds recognised his talents and nominated him to Seanad Éireann in 1993.
After just a year in that role, he sought election to the European Parliament for the Munster constituency and was not only elected, but topping the poll in a stunning victory.
That relationship with his voters only became stronger over his years of dedicated and energetic service and he went on to top the poll in each of the three subsequent elections he contested, attracting truly extraordinary levels of support.
His vote was testament to the truly strong bond between him and the people he represented. Without question he was one of the great vote getters of the modern political era. He had no equal.
He was also an impactful legislator in the European Parliament and was extremely popular with parliamentarians and officials throughout the European Union.
Paralysed by an accident when he was 16, Brian demonstrated incredible personal resilience and strength of character. With great natural musical ability and a fantastic outgoing personality, he was the life and soul of many Fianna Fáil Ard Fheiseanna and thrilled many on the musical scene in Shanleys in Clonakilty for many years.
Brian was also a person of deep personal faith, which was profoundly important to him as he struggled with the complications arising from his disability in his later years.
Brian was deeply committed to his community and his country. His loss will be felt deeply by his mother Sally, his family, his large circle of friends and all his former colleagues.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam,