John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I join others in congratulating those who have been nominated to serve in the Seanad and those who have been elected to Dáil Éireann. I wish everybody well who is contesting the forthcoming Seanad election. I am not contesting the election but I can sympathise with the predicament of members of that electorate who would like to give their No. 1 vote to several candidates. Unfortunately, we do not have the option of doing what one person did, which is to write four number ones and state "as promised". I wish everybody well and I hope as many Members as possible will be back in the House for another term.

My main reason for speaking, however, is to join in paying tribute to you, a Chathaoirligh. I thank you for the work you have done both as Cathaoirleach and, prior to that, as a Senator. It is a remarkable achievement in public service to have been a Member of the House for as long as you have been. You have always been fair and even-handed in your decisions and always good humoured. It has been a pleasure for Members to serve under you as Cathaoirleach. You deserve congratulations for that.

In addition, Members who have travelled abroad with the Cathaoirleach know how well he has represented this country. I accompanied the Cathoirleach on a trip to the United States and we were proud to be there and of how the Cathaoirleach represented us. He deserves great credit.

I agree with what was said with regard to drugs. Senator O'Toole is correct that the Naval Service could identify the location of vessels at any time. It is a simple matter, and cutting off the supply is the way to deal with this problem. I also agree with the views expressed about Seanad reform. The template is available in the report that was prepared and there is consensus as to the way forward. I believe there is also a commitment in the programme for Government to progress this matter. It should be done.