Dáil debates

Thursday, 30 March 2023

12:40 pm

Photo of Seán Ó FearghaílSeán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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Before proceeding to the next business, I draw Members' attention to the fact that today we bid farewell to a long-standing member of staff in the Houses of the Oireachtas, namely, our Superintendent, Noel Murphy, who is quite properly in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery. Noel joined the public service in 1978 and came to us in Leinster House in 1999.

Many Members will know him very well for his work in the committees. He has been a permanent feature around the Houses for 24 years. I know all Members would like to thank him for his incredible work ethic and for his efficiency, dedication, good humour and amiability at all times. We will miss him. I suspect the children of Members and staff who come in here at Christmas to meet Santa, however, will be raising a few eyebrows this Christmas when the new Santa persona is revealed. Do not be looking at me because-----

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I just was.

Photo of Seán Ó FearghaílSeán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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-----I might be the right shape, but I do not think I have the personality for it.

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Deputy Pringle could rise to it.

Photo of Thomas PringleThomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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I am aspiring to it.

Photo of Seán Ó FearghaílSeán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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On behalf of everybody here, I most sincerely wish Noel, his wife Fiona and their children Aoife, Daniel, Sophie and Caitlin all the best in Noel's retirement. I hope they make the most of his newfound freedom and that his retirement is long, healthy and happy.

Members rose and applauded.

Photo of Seán Ó FearghaílSeán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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I am also advised that a former loyal servant of the House, Mr. Ray Hesse, is here with us today as well. He is very welcome.