Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

How do I follow that? The Taoiseach has made history by being the longest serving Leader of Fine Gael and the first Taoiseach from Fine Gael to be re-elected. He is an avid GAA fan and I often see him at the matches in Pearse Stadium. The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Denis Naughten, and I put the fear of God into Simon and Leo a few weeks ago when we sent them a text message saying that the Taoiseach was going to announce the following morning that he would step down one week after Mayo wins the All-Ireland final. Denis was telling me poor Leo was crying in the corner, saying he will never get the job of Taoiseach. Given the Taoiseach's energy, wide expertise and knowledge he might get involved with the Mayo football team and bring the elusive Sam Maguire Cup back to Mayo, although not at the expense of Galway but perhaps at the expense of Cork or Kerry.

Finally, I wish the Taoiseach, Fionnuala and the family long life and happiness together. I am delighted to be able to call the Taoiseach a good friend and I wish him the best in the years ahead.

See this speech in context