Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I endorse the sentiments expressed by the Taoiseach and wish the Ceann Comhairle, his staff and the staff of the Houses of the Oireachtas a peaceful and happy Christmas. I thank them for their efforts during the year. I thank the Clerk of the Dáil and his staff for the smooth and efficient running of the House. I also thank members of the Garda, the press and everyone who does their jobs in the interests of democracy.

I wish my fellow party leaders, including the Taoiseach and the absent leader of the Progressive Democrats, a happy Christmas — I believe it is the Taoiseach's last Christmas on the Government benches.

See this speech in context