John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

——unlike many Opposition Members in this House, recognised the fact that the country is going well and stated he hopes he can make it go better. At least he accepted that.

I wish to particularly single out the work done by the former Minister for Agriculture and Food, Deputy Joe Walsh, during the long period he spent in that office. He protected the farming, agriculture and food industries in this country in a very effective manner for a long period. That Ireland remained free of foot and mouth disease had a great deal to do with his actions. In addition, he conducted the CAP reform and WTO talks extremely well and we owe him a significant debt of gratitude.