Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

-----unless the wheels fall off Leo's and Simon's campaigns for leadership. One never knows, but the Taoiseach could be back in place the week after next. I first got to know the Taoiseach when I was elected to the Dáil in 2002. At the same time the Taoiseach had become leader of a demoralised Fine Gael Party, which had suffered severe losses and lost many big names in that general election. I am aware of the amount of energy and commitment he put into rebuilding the Fine Gael Party at that time, travelling the length and breadth of the country. The Taoiseach is a man of huge energy. I have seen that especially since he took on the role of Taoiseach. There were times when I wondered what kept him going at such a pace. However, as we all know, good things come to an end. I thank the Taoiseach for his friendship and support during his time in office. Every time I contacted him with an issue of concern he always reverted to me by either telephone call or text. I thank him for that.

However, as the Taoiseach leaves office, will he outline what he considers to be his greatest achievements? Also, what are his biggest regrets? Everybody in politics will have some regret when they retire. If the Taoiseach had an opportunity to turn back the clock, would he have appointed Deputy Simon Coveney or Deputy Leo Varadkar to the Cabinet or would he have got Deputy Noel Rock to give his great speech on three or four occasions on the nomination of Taoiseach? Of course, we cannot change the past and all Members of the House do what we believe is right for our country. Finally, will the Taoiseach outline what he considers to be the main challenges facing the man who will succeed him in office? What advice will he give the new Taoiseach?

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