Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

Our Taoiseach, given his relationship with Tony Blair and as the longest serving Head of State in the European Union, could play a pivotal role in this regard, particularly given the outstanding record of both men in Northern Ireland. They have great ability and I urge the Taoiseach, although urging him is unnecessary, to play that role.

I wish to put on record my thanks to the Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach for chairing the Seanad over the past five years. I have experience as a Dáil Deputy and have come to the Seanad as a Minister of State, but in the past five years we have had a spectacular Seanad. The outgoing Leader of the House, Deputy O'Rourke, played a pivotal role in the work of this House. She and her deputy, Senator Dardis, assisted by Eamonn McCormack, were a good team. This House sat for long periods of three days per week and even four days per week when necessary. We were told at the start that with the golden Opposition at the time it would sit only one day per week. The former Leader proved that wrong.