Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On my own behalf and on behalf of the Rural Independent Group, I warmly congratulate the Ceann Comhairle today. I thank him and his team and staff for the courteous way they dealt with us all in the previous Dáil. I also wish Mary Clare and their family the very best too.

I extend commiserations to Deputy Naughten on entering the race and not being successful but he made it all the more interesting. The suggestions he made are very valid and relevant. I thank the ushers, the tellers and all the staff for counting the votes so quickly and diligently.

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for his co-operation, dedication and calmness at all times on the committees on which I worked with him, especially the Business Committee. He helped to keep many of us calm as well during those debates and arduous times.

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