Liz O'Donnell (Dublin South, Progressive Democrats)

On behalf of the Progressive Democrats, I too wish colleagues on all sides a good summer break, mindful of the fact that many of us will return to our constituencies and come into the House on committee business. I thank you, a Cheann Comhairle, for your courtesy during the year and in particular for your chairmanship of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission, of which I am privileged to be a member. The commission has done significant work in the first couple of years of its existence. I congratulate the staff of the Houses of the Oireachtas for putting in place many changes for the benefit of the Houses and the Members. There have been significant improvements in the facilities for Members and the provision of extra staffing resources for Members of both Houses.

I thank all the staff, personal assistants, secretaries, clerical staff and the ushers who look after us so well, including our constituents when they come to visit the House. All the reports from our constituents when they come to visit the Oireachtas confirm that they are treated with tremendous courtesy and professionalism by the staff. I acknowledge that.

I wish Seán Sheils well as he goes into his retirement. He is a good friend to all Members. I wish all the staff and support staff in your office, a Cheann Comhairle, a good break for the summer.

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