I move:
The Dáil Eireann extends its deep sympathy to the Parliament and people of France on the death of President Pompidou.
Death of French President: Expression of Sympathy.
I should like to be associated with this expression of sympathy on the death of the former President of France, M. Georges Pompidou. Like the Taoiseach, I met President Pompidou on a number of occasions, the first of which was when we were approaching membership of the European Economic Community. I realised then that Ireland had a great friend and ally in overcoming the problems that faced us. I anticipated that the Taoiseach would speak at greater length. Perhaps I might be forgiven if I also say that as Members of the European Economic Community we in Ireland feel that we have lost a very formidable friend and influential ally.
We in the Fianna Fáil Party, having had close association with the former President's party in the European Parliament, know especially that we have lost such a friend and ally.
I should like to join with the Taoiseach in conveying our sympathy to President Pompidou's widow and the people of France.
Question put and agreed to.
Members rose in their places.