Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I notice it. Even if I were never to profit from reform of the House, it is something of a failure that we have not managed to do it. I know the Leader set out to do it, as did the leader of Fine Gael, Senator Brian Hayes, the leader of the Labour Party, Senator Ryan and Senator Dardis, leader of the Progressive Democrats. We all set out to get this done and it did not happen. However, now is not the time for recriminations.

Looking back on this Seanad, it will be seen to have been an influential period and a Seanad that has been increasingly relevant, with more legislation initiated perhaps than in any of its predecessors since the foundation of the State. It is worth noting that particular Ministers have chosen to initiate legislation in this House. The contributions by spokespersons on all sides have been very important and I want to recognise that.

In terms of the relevance of the House, from the perspective outside Leinster House, this has been strengthened. I concur with Senator Brian Hayes to the effect that the contribution of the Seanad is important. I hope the five of us, who are putting our names forward again for the university benches will be back in the House to contribute further. I wish colleagues on all sides who are going forward for re-election, the best of luck. I particularly want to extend thanks to certain people. I do not believe Senator Dardis is going forward again, although perhaps he is. He has made an extraordinary contribution to the House——