Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

I join the Taoiseach in congratulating Archbishop Seán Brady who is to be elevated to the position of cardinal. He is a man who has earned the respect of everyone and he will carry the duties of that post well.

While I am on my feet, I recognise the achievement of our novelist, Ms Anne Enright, whose novel, which I have read, was kindly sent to us all. I congratulate her on a tremendous achievement. I am sure the Ceann Comhairle will take some credit for this because this book was published during his period as Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism and it represents the flowering of Irish talent. No doubt the themes of blame and hurt within the family are ones that even political families sometimes must experience.

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