Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle, the Clerk of the Dáil and all the staff of the Houses, those on the frontline and those working in offices, who have been so co-operative over this long session. Deputies should take the advice of the Ceann Comhairle and take some time out during the summer recess. We have a busy schedule of committee work in July and September. Last year there were 22 committee meetings in July and 32 in September so Members are continuing with their work.

I join the Ceann Comhairle in wishing Ray Hesse a happy retirement. It is great to see a person like Ray, who came here as a messenger in 1973, move up the ranks to his current position of Head Usher. He saw the many changes that have taken place in those years. He always has a friendly smile for Members as we rush around the Houses and he acts as a calming influence. It takes a special person to do that. Ray has been most professional and courteous in all his years here and I congratulate him on behalf of myself and my Government colleagues on his retirement. He will retire in August and I wish him, his wife Maura and his family many happy and enjoyable years in the years ahead.

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