Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As a first time Deputy, I believe Ireland is a fantastic democracy. It is diverse, edgy, free of fear and free of terror. The Taoiseach is a credit to making that situation possible. He upholds this democracy extremely well. He has addressed social issues that have shaped Irish culture and he has restored our confidence in ourselves. The Taoiseach addressed the financial crisis. He and his Cabinet took very hard decisions, which have been painful for all of us in society.

There are some legacy issues relating to austerity, health and housing which I hope the next Administration will be able to resolve.

The Taoiseach has represented Ireland in Europe and the United States with great wit and enthusiasm and has ensured that we are respected worldwide. He has influenced the progress of Ireland's position in the Brexit negotiations and ensured that we are at the top of the agenda. I congratulate him on that.

On a lighter note, as mentioned by Deputy Adams, the Taoiseach has mastered the art of not answering a question and taking up to three and a half minutes to complete that task. Unlike my Kerry colleagues who always answer a question with another question, the Taoiseach neither answers the question nor asks a question - I am joking, of course.

The Taoiseach has been a decent and honest politician, with no taint of corruption during his tenure in office or as a Deputy, which is what we would always expect of our politicians. I compliment the Taoiseach in that regard. He has always tried to do the best for the Irish people and he has dealt with us honestly. On a personal level, he was always dealt with me very fairly.

I wish the Taoiseach, his wife and his family long happiness, not in retirement, I am sure, but in a new phase of their lives.

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