Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Before I address the Bill, I note that the Minister has made a significant statement today that he will not seek reappointment to his current post when a new Taoiseach takes office. I pay tribute to him for his public service and stewardship of the Department of Finance and the economy in recent years. He is certainly leaving the economy in a much better state than in which he found it. Ireland's successful exit from the troika programme will be one of his notable achievements. Generally, the economy is performing very well, despite the fact that there will always be ongoing challenges. From my perspective, the Minister has been good to work with and I have a healthy respect for him. He has always been straight and upfront, even if we do not, of course, agree on every issue. I wish him well in the future and express the hope he will get to spend more quality time with his grown-up children and grandchildren. I hope he will enjoy life generally in reflecting on a career with many achievements, for which I thank him.

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