Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I also take the opportunity to thank Patricia. I have been here for over 20 years and Patricia has been a permanent fixture in different parts of this system for nearly a decade longer. I am sure she is a little uncomfortable with us talking about her as the focus of attention today. Normally, she is facilitating the other egos in this House to be the centre of attention. I thank her because, without people like Patricia Doran, democracy as we know it today would not function. She has been extraordinarily professional, patient at times, as well as firm at times. She has worked in the Journal Office, the Bills Office, various committees and the IT section.

She has been involved in House services and more recently, has assisted the Ceann Comhairle in his office, in more ways than one. At the end of a very significant and successful career here, on behalf of this House I wish to thank Patricia for all the work that she has done and wish her well for the future. I am sure that she will not miss us perhaps as much as she says. She will have the chance to focus on and explore so many opportunities when she leaves this House. I thank her for her many, many years of service. It is deeply appreciated.

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