Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Yes, we have done that. We should also ensure we recognise it because sometimes we only hear the criticisms.

Today is a little bit like the last day of term at school. More than that, it is like the end of sixth year when people say goodbye to a number of those they know they will not work with again in school having spent a number of years there. In looking forward to reunions in the future we wish well to those who are leaving and have decided to leave of their own will. We look forward to seeing what they achieve in their future careers. It is clear that most of them have strong ambitions to achieve even more in their lives than they have achieved up to now. We look forward to reunions where we get a chance to wish them well.

I wish to mention two people. Senator Henry has been here with me since I became a Member 14 and a half years ago. She has been very helpful to those of us on the Independent benches. As Senator O'Toole has already done, I wish to express my thanks and I say that on behalf of many others also. I pass birthday wishes to Senator Maurice Hayes who has added to the stature of this House. Outside this House, particularly in his work in chairing the National Forum on Europe, he has managed to fit in unbelievable work in the past five years or so. I must now recognise that what I used to think was an old age, which he will attain next week, is no longer old. That man seems to have so much energy, enthusiasm and commitment that I believe he will succeed in the future.

In wishing well those seeking re-election and who will hopefully return here, it is like schooldays and we hope to go on to new things. We wish success to those standing for election again and we know that the strong will that has been shown in the past 14 years that I have been here will continue in the non-confrontational manner in which this House has worked. It will continue with the constructive debate. The willingness of Ministers to listen to debates and to accept amendments has improved our legislation. I congratulate you, a Leas Chathaoirligh, and all the others who played that role.