Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I join my colleagues in congratulating my good friend and colleague, Senator Cummins, on his elevation to the position of Leader of this House. It has been a great pleasure to have worked with him as Whip for the last four years. He was always honourable and always kept his word. His word was always his bond, which is a great attribute in any person. I also congratulate Senator Coghlan on his elevation to the position of Government Chief Whip in his House. Nobody deserves it more. He was one of the few people who could fill Senator Cummins's shoes when he was absent from this House, which did not take place too often.

I feel like proposing an amendment to the Order of Business because I have wanted to do so for the past four years to observe the faces of Senators Cummins and Coghlan when they realise they would lose a vote. I will not do so, however, because I am not that cruel. I genuinely wish Senator Cummins well as Leader and hope he will serve in that position not only for the next couple of weeks but also for the coming five years. I also hope I will have five years to get used to sitting on this side of the House and to seeing the faces of Government Senators.

I pay tribute to the outgoing Leader, Senator Cassidy, who faced a difficult job at times in keeping the business of the House running smoothly. He always held his position of leadership in high esteem and I wish him, and all my colleagues, well in the coming Seanad election.

I also pay tribute to the Cathaoirleach and the staff of the House, including the Clerk and Clerk Assistant to the Seanad, for the courtesy they have shown over the nine years I have served as a Senator. I look forward to returning to work with the other Senators elected to the 24th Seanad. I offer my best wishes for the future to all my colleagues who are retiring.