My thoughts and Prayers are with Ira's family. Many years ago, Ira was one of my students, at Christchurch, polytechnic. At the end of class one day, she asked me if I would like to join her, to celebrate St Patrick's day at O'Maly's bar. From that day on, we became close friends, and had many, grand times. Then she met and married, Lindsay, and we continued our friendship. I was sad when, she and Lindsay moved to Nelson, I missed them both. But I knew how happy Ira was, to be closer to family, and her much loved Grandchildren. The passed few years have meant that Ira was in a lot of pain, but I know she was loved and cared for. I will raise a glass of Guinness, in a toast to Ira. Love Jude Charlton