John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I thank the Cathaoirleach for all the work he has done during the year. He had handled the business of the House in an even-handed and fair manner. I applaud his humour and courtesy. I include the Leas-Chathaoirleach in that regard. Everybody has been thanked. I briefly thank the Leader of the House for the manner in which she has conducted her business and for everything she has done during the year. I especially thank Mr. Eamonn McCormack. I have personal reasons to thank him for his assistance, not only on the days when I stood in for the Leader on the Order of Business, but also on other occasions.

In particular, I thank the people who work in the Clerk's office. I emphasise again the increasing burden that is falling on their shoulders because of matters like the report on electronic voting, which is part of the duties of that office. The Houses of the Oireachtas Commission needs to examine the resources which are available to that office in comparison to the amount of work it has to do. When Bills are being considered, the staff of that office perform their duties very well in difficult circumstances. I refer, for example, to the Criminal Justice Bill 2004, to which many amendments were proposed.

I join those who paid tribute to Mr. Jimmy Walsh of The Irish Times for his unfailing and fair reporting on the proceedings of this House. It is obvious that the idea of a rural zoo does not resonate with that newspaper's sub-editors, but that is not Mr. Walsh's fault.

I would like to single out a group of people who do not receive the praise they deserve. I refer to the ushers who, according to a report produced by the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission, brought 72,000 visitors through the Houses in the past year. That they can facilitate so many visits without any disruption, while looking after the Members of the Oireachtas at the same time, is quite remarkable.