Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Before I speak on the European Council, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I wish you, the Leas-Cheann Comhairle and your staff a happy Christmas. Long-standing Members of the House are aware that the House only functions due to the dedication, commitment and hard work of the many people who work behind the scenes. This is our only opportunity in the year to thank them for that. On behalf of Members on the Government benches, Members of the House and the leaders of other parties, I thank everybody who works with the Ceann Comhairle and the Leas-Cheann Comhairle, and the people who work in the Houses of the Oireachtas, including the ushers, restaurant staff and the gardaí and Army personnel who are based here. We very much appreciate their courtesy, kindness and help throughout the year and the long hours they work. I wish our colleagues in the Press Gallery every seasonal joy. They do a good job reporting proceedings in the House and I hope they, their families and friends have a good Christmas.

Most of all, I wish all Members of this House — Deputy Kenny and his party, Deputy Gilmore and his party, Deputy Ó Caoláin and his party, the Independent Members and all my colleagues — and Members of the Upper House a very happy and peaceful Christmas. I hope they enjoy a good break. Everybody has worked hard in their respective positions in 2007 so I hope they get a rest over the Christmas. It is a time for family and friends.

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