Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister and his officials for their patience but most of all for coming back to the House following the last discussion on this legislation before the summer recess. At that time, as Senator Ryan said, the Minister said he would consider the recommital of part of the Bill, which he did. That, in itself, was very helpful. The approach of the Minister was to find consensus in the Seanad, which he mostly did. I watched most of the debate on the monitor in my office and was fascinated by how vocal Members were on the Bill.

I echo the good wishes extended to the Minister. It is good to see he is safe and sound. Thankfully, the accident has not affected his brain or his mind, but he also has a cold which made speaking difficult. All in all, the exercise has been a good one. I thank all Senators, our spokesperson, Senator Ó Murchú and Senator Brady. I wish the Minister and his officials a happy Christmas.