Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for his kind words, even if they were not wholly truthful as regards the co-operation of some Members. I want to place on the record our great appreciation for the hard work and diligence of the staff of the Oireachtas. They often demonstrate their patience with all of us. This place simply could not function without them. Christmas is a time for family, for renewal and for hope. I wish everybody beannachtaí na féile. I hope people have an enjoyable Christmas. To those who are on my Christmas list and those who are not, Nollaig shona in equal measure.

I heard an Leas-Cheann Comhairle's very wise words on how we should recall those on the margins and people who are struggling this Christmas. Sometimes when those words are said very sincerely, they sound rather hollow to those who are struggling. I would like us to make a new year's resolution that when we return we will make true and be true to that Christmas promise. I wish the leaders of Government, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, a good rest as we undoubtedly head towards an election. I wish them well under the mistletoe as they snuggle up together over another Christmas season. I suggest that in the new year, the best present that could be brought is a new Government, new politics, new hope and renewal because those things are not just for Christmas.

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