Mary White (Fianna Fail)

I congratulate the Leas-Chathaoirleach on his appointment and Senator Rory Kiely on his appointment as Cathaoirleach yesterday. It is a great privilege for both men. With regard to the former Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications, Senator O'Rourke – I will keep calling her "Minister"– it was an incredible experience to see her wisdom during the opening of the Seanad yesterday. We will all benefit from her years of experience in the Oireachtas.

As a businesswoman, I believe one can go nowhere in business or politics without vision. One also requires strategy and tactics. The Taoiseach demonstrated vision in his appointment of Deputy Dick Roche as Minister of State with special responsibility for European Affairs. I have known Deputy Roche for many years and was a night student of his in UCD when I studied politics in the early 1970s. He has a deep commitment to public service which is demonstrated by his participation in it. I have never heard any politician speak as clearly and succinctly on the subject of Europe as he did recently on the radio.

I am honoured and privileged to be here. I never thought the day would come when I would be participating at this level – I dare not say at the helm, but it is close enough. I am ecstatic to be here. I would like to thank everybody here who voted for me. I have been in a state of ecstasy since.