Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On behalf of the Taoiseach I join leaders of political parties in wishing you and your staff a restful period ahead and thank you for your co-operation and for discharging your responsibilities so conscientiously during the course of the term. I look forward to everyone coming back in good and robust health, ready for the fray. As one who is, perhaps, less frequently in the bar than many, I wish Seán Sheils a happy retirement. I thank Seán for his friendship, discretion, courtesy and professionalism. He will be missed by many of us. He has been a fixture for a long time. When long-standing members of staff leave there is always a sentimental aspect to it. I am sure he will enjoy his good health with his family and I have no doubt he will be very busy in the years ahead also. I wish him well and thank him for the many times he poured a good pint.

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