Tributes Pour In After Death Of Senator Kate Walsh, Aged 60

Progressive Democrats Senator Kate Walsh died on Tuesday morning after a long illness.

The 60-year-old, who was actively involved in voluntary and community organisations in the north of the county for the past 30 years, lived in Co Kildare and was the party's spokesperson on social and family affairs.

In 1982, she became honorary Lord Mayor of Celbridge and topped the poll in the area in the local elections in 1999 with the highest vote of any female candidate in the entire country.

Last month, she said she would not be contesting the upcoming election due to ill health.

The Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern T.D., expressed his sympathy to the family and friends of Senator Kate Walsh, saying, "Kate Walsh was dedicated to her local community for many years before she came into Leinster House and her work in politics was a continuation of that deeply rooted community involvement in Celbridge and North Kildare. 

"The high esteem in which she was held by her own local community is evidenced by the very strong vote she secured on her election to Kildare County Council.

"In Leinster House she became a popular and respected colleague who will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

Progressive Democrats' Leader and Tánaiste Michael McDowell expressed his deep sadness at her death releasing a statement in which he said that "She was a lovely person and a true friend, both to myself and to our Party. She was a gentle yet brave woman, whose many achievements made her an inspirational figure.

"She was admired and respected by her colleagues in the Oireachtas and I know that her exceptional work in her own local community was admired by all.

"I want to pay a sincere tribute to her for her loyal service to the people of Kildare and to the Progressive Democrats."

Minister of Health Mary Harney described Senator Walsh as a close personal friend as well as a wonderfully supportive colleague.

"Kate dedicated herself to improving the lives of others. She had a wonderful way with people and everyone who came into contact with her was impressed by her genuine warmth. She will be sadly missed," she said.

Senator John Dardis, deputy leader of Seanad Eireann, added that, "Kate was one of the most popular people in Leinster House, respected and liked right across the political spectrum.

"She had a deep sense of duty to the State, the Senate and the people of Kildare. Her entire focus was on the welfare of her friends and local community, never thinking of herself. She gave herself completely to supporting and helping everyone with whom she came into contact."