Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Leader for affording us the opportunity to debate further and adult education with the Minister of State, who has been always accessible to and informative with this House. I understand the Minister of State announced last November her intention to step down at the next general election and to resign her office next month. On the basis of reliable speculation that this could be her last opportunity to address the Seanad, I wish to take the opportunity to make a few observations, with the indulgence of the Leas-Chathaoirleach. It is likely to be the Minister of State's last appearance before the Seanad, and I see that the she is confirming that.

I will begin by commenting on further and adult education, youth work and the many other different areas in which the Minister of State has been involved. She has enjoyed substantial and impressive ministerial input in the course of her political career, most recently in the Department of Education and Science. I acknowledge the Minister of State's proud record of achievement with those various portfolios. If it transpires that she steps down at the next general election and no de Valera is elected to replace her, it will be the first time since 1917 that the surname will not be represented in the Houses of the Oireachtas. That is very significant, given the long and proud tradition of the de Valera family.