Women 'can be truly grateful' for his stand on equal pay

MARY HARNEY:THE WOMEN of Ireland "can be truly grateful" for the "quiet determination" of Dr Patrick Hillery in his role as Ireland's first European commissioner, Minister for Health and acting leader of the Progressive Democrats Mary Harney told the Dáil.

"His courageous insistence as EU social commissioner that the European equality directive had to apply in Ireland delivered one of the most practical equalities for women - equal pay," she said.

Ms Harney described Dr Hillery as "a modern Irish patriot. He was a man of substance, character and values who helped build a new Ireland in the latter part of the 20th century.

"His patriotism was the principled patriotism of non-violence and loyalty to the Constitution, a stance taken not on easy words and rhetoric but tested in the fire of integrity under pressure."

He "gave a personal medical service to everyone, with no distinction between the wealthy or the poor, the powerful or the disadvantaged.

"He lived these values and instilled them in his family and those around him in public life.

"It was this combination of principle, practical skill and personal commitment, all underpinned by enduring values, that made our former president and colleague in this House a true leader."

One of his "greatest, lasting achievements was to shepherd Ireland into membership of the European Economic Community, a turning point in our economic and social history.

"He was clear that, by joining, Ireland would be participating in the political shaping of Europe in the long term, as he said, shaping 'a unified Europe that would be a potent force for peace not only on our Continent but in the world'."

She said: "He loved his country and did it proud; he was a true patriot and a quiet hero of modern Ireland."

A minute's silence was observed in the Dáil after all party leaders had paid tribute to Dr Hillery. The House was then adjourned for the removal and today's State funeral. It will resume tomorrow.