Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle) | Oireachtas source

That concludes Leaders' Questions for today and, indeed, for 2023. I beg the indulgence of the House to make a few remarks before we proceed to Questions on Policy or Legislation. As 2023 draws to a close, it is worth noting that, up to the end of November, we have processed 52,145 parliamentary questions. When today ends, we will have sat in plenary session for something in excess of 1,000 hours. We have initiated in the year 85 Bills, passed 26 Bills, held 941 committee meetings, and heard from an astonishing 2,915 witnesses. That is evidence of a participatory democracy in action.

I thank the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and leaders of all the parties, Government and Opposition, and indeed all of the Members for their constant co-operation with the Chair. I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle who is ever present and ever dependable and the large array of deputy Chairs who are now operating here. Some of the leaders, as evidenced by today's contributions, continue to be horologically challenged. I hope they might learn a little more about timekeeping during the Christmas break.

It has been an unusual year. We will never forget our return in September when we witnessed an unprecedented assault on the Houses, our Members and our support staff. We have, during the year, drawn public attention to the Chamber by the use of expletives, crude and unparliamentary language, something that does nothing to enhance debate or build confidence in the Thirty-third Dáil as a well-functioning parliamentary assembly. In the days ahead, I exhort Deputies to remember those in need in our own country and across the world. Over Christmas, please take time for yourself, your families and your loved ones so that you may return in January refreshed and re-energised to tackle the undoubted challenges that lie ahead. Chun casadh ar an seanfhocal Gaeilge, go mbeirimid go léir beo, ar aon nós, ag an am seo arís an bhliain seo chugainn, b'fhéidir anseo.

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