John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

On behalf of the Progressive Democrats, I join previous speakers in paying tribute to the Superintendent, Éamon O'Donohoe. It is unusual for me on my second day in the Seanad to pay tribute to someone who is leaving, but my association with Éamon goes back some time. When I was commissioned first in 1975 it was under Éamon's wing that I arrived in Collins Barracks and he was every bit as much the superintendent there, but in a very nice way in showing one where to stand, where to go and what to do when one felt totally inhibited. Likewise, it is somewhat of a coincidence that I arrive here and he also showed me where to go and what to do. Last week when I asked about the double doors into his office and whether they lead into an outer office, I was told one knocks at the door and takes a deep breath. That said it all.