Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I second the motion proposed by the Leader to mark the great occasion of the nomination of Senator Maurice Hayes as European of the Year. Senator Hayes is a modest man and I suspect he is trying to find his feet at this point. I assure the Senator that no one on this side of the House will ask him to run for the park after this accolade although I suspect there are many who would like him to do so. This is a great occasion for the Senator and the House. Those of us who have come to know Senator Maurice Hayes in recent years are aware that he is a person of absolute integrity. He brings to this House a great body of experience as a former official who served for a long period in very public roles particularly in Northern Ireland, but also in this State. He conducts himself in this House with great independence and we are very lucky to have him here.

It is absolutely appropriate that the Senator should receive this accolade at this time. I have spoken to many colleagues on all sides of this House and the Dáil and they are very appreciative of his work during the first referendum on the Nice treaty. Senator Maurice Hayes chaired with great gusto and skill the Forum on Europe. He has travelled to every corner of the country to get across the message that Europe is not only important for Ireland, but that we have a huge contribution to make to the project.

It is significant that Senator Hayes has received this award. I second the vote of congratulations on behalf of the Fine Gael group. The Senator should keep up his good work on Europe. We have so much to learn from his experience. His standing has greatly contributed to the standing of the entire House throughout the country. I congratulate him on behalf of my group.