Tribute paid to retiring `Irish Times’ journalist

Senators paid tribute to journalist Jimmy Walsh for his coverage for The Irish Times of the Seanad over the past 14 years. Mr Walsh, who began his journalistic career with the now defunct Irish Press more than 50 years ago, retires on Thursday.

House leader Sen Maurice Cummins said he was always amazed by Mr Walsh’s retention and memory for details of what happened many years ago.

“He has covered this House with distinction and we owe him a debt of gratitude for his honest and accurate reporting of events in this House,’’ he added. “He will be missed by all of us.’’

Sen Marc MacSharry said Mr Walsh was “all graces and no airs”, while Sen Paul Coghlan suggested he record his anecdotes and stories in a book. Sen Ivana Bacik said his honesty, accuracy and impartiality had done the Seanad and Leinster House a great service.