Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

That is a fair point. When I was in the backbenches the system was such that it was very difficult to prepare for debate within the House. Unfortunately, legislation does not always proceed as the Deputy desires but we will be cognisant of the fact that Deputies need a clear indication of the Bills that are to arise so that they can prepare accordingly.

When I first became a Member of this House in 1987, the discussion was on whether we should return from the recess before or after the Listowel races. We have now decided to be like Solomon and return during the middle of them, for which I apologise profusely to the Ceann Comhairle. We are sorry we will not be with him on that occasion. I thank him, the other Members and the staff for their work. Contrary to public opinion, the Government and Members of the Oireachtas will continue to work at the committees and perform their duties as public representatives during the recess. I wish Members well and hope everyone will have an opportunity to take some time off and enjoy family life. I thank the members of the media for their work on publicising what is debated in the House. I am sure the Ceann Comhairle looks forward to the break and I assume most of us will return fighting fit and exuberant to do the work that must be done before Christmas.

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