Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I admire the tenacity of those raising matters on the Adjournment. They are powerful altogether.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his good wishes to all of us in the House and I know other Members will say the same. I thank him for the way he has done his business since we came back fully in October. I extend those good wishes to Deirdre Lane and Jody Blake. I thank them and the other Seanad staff members.

I also thank the leaders and representatives of the various groups for the way in which we can discuss matters. I accept that the House is political and people are entitled to vote and put down amendments – that is understandable – but there is another layer of activity which is conducted in a spirit of co-operation. I also thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach and the other Acting Chairmen who have conducted the business of this House with great aplomb during this term. I thank the Superintendent and the Captain of the Guard for the manner in which they have attended to the business of the House. They keep –"stern" would be the wrong word – a very good watch upon us all to ensure we do not step out of line, in a certain sense, too often.

I understand the head messenger, Mr. John McCabe, is retiring today. He has long been a friend of both Houses and today this House pays tribute to him. He has given very valued public service in the Houses of the Oireachtas and we all regard him with great affection. He is friendly and open in temperament and very considerate to visitors. I am sure there will be a lively party to celebrate his retirement.

I thank all Members of the House for their friendship and courtesy to each other regardless of political affiliation. When I became Leader of the House, I did not know very much about the job—