Statment on the Passing of Garret FitzGerald

Statement of Anthony Lawlor TD

On the sad passing of former Taoiseach, Garret FitzGerald

19th May 2011

“It was with great sadness that I learnt of the passing, this morning, of former Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael Garret FitzGerald. Garret was one of the great social reformers of our time. His foresight in terms of social justice, equality and Ireland’s place within the European Union was to bring this county in line with other modern European states. He will be most remembered for the crucial role he played in the Northern Ireland peace process and especially the Anglo Irish Agreement. I am sure that he, like most on this island, was proud to see the welcome which Queen Elizabeth II received over the last couple of days, which solidifies the Peace Process.

On a personal level I had the privilege of meeting with him on the first day of the 31st Dáil and we reminisced of the interaction he had with my late mother, Patsy Lawlor. It was an honour to meet him on what was an historic day for both myself and for the Fine Gael party which he held so closely to his heart. He will continue to be a spiritual inspiration to the country, the Fine Gael Party and its members.

I wish extend my heartfelt sympathies to his children, John, Mark and Mary, and his extended family. May he rest in peace” concluded Kildare North TD Anthony Lawlor.