Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

The Leader of the Opposition and I discussed this earlier today. All on this side of the House and, I'm sure, all across the whole House and in the other chamber, which is adjourning, are deeply saddened by the very sad news of the passing of Senator Alex Gallacher. Senator Gallacher served in this parliament for 10 years. Born in Scotland, his father headed out here, in Senator Gallacher's own words, for 'a better chance for himself and his family'. That's what this country is all about. That's the country he served.

I know members will want to gather their thoughts and to pay a complete tribute to Senator Gallacher in the next few days and for there to be all condolences and honours due to a serving member of the parliament. We will indeed do that. We will honour this servant of Australia—a man who loved his adopted country, who loved the party he served and was faithful to it and who found purpose in serving others in our parliament. To all in the Labor movement and the caucus, to the Leader of the Opposition and particularly to those from South Australia: we extend our deepest sympathies to all of you. To Senator Gallacher's family: we send our love and prayers to you on this terrible day. May God bless him. May God bless all of you. And may our colleague and friend rest in peace.

A motion will be moved tomorrow which will provide the opportunity for members to speak to that motion. Here today we simply acknowledge him and thank him for his wonderful service. We remember him and what he's done for our country and we think of his family most of all.

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