Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

I wish the Minister well as regards this legislation. In the five years that I have been in the Seanad I have noticed that he has always treated this Chamber with respect. He has appeared in this House on many occasions. From my experience in the other House over 13 years and the five years I have spent in the Seanad, the standard and level of debate is far superior in this House. I have participated in excellent sessions here and found the Seanad process to be a very good one. It is a place I am going to miss, but time moves on for all of us and I have made my decision.

I thank Senator Hanafin for his kind words earlier. Senators might often jibe at each other in this House, but it is noteworthy that a great level of camaraderie tends to develop among Members in this rather than in the other House. Perhaps this is because the Seanad is a smaller unit, with 60 Members, and we get to know each other much more on a personal basis.

I have enjoyed my experience in this House. I wish the people well who are contesting the Seanad. I was on the labour panel in the past. I wish them all the best of luck. I particularly want to wish my colleague, Senator Burke, well. He has been an excellent Leas-Chathaoirleach, as I said earlier today. I have always admired the contributions of Senator Quinn and wish him well on the university panel. When asked by my local paper about my favourite Senators, etc., I acknowledged Senator Quinn's contribution in particular. I believe Senator Cox will be a loss to the House because although she might be an irritant to the Government Whip at times, she livens up debate in the Seanad.