Don Lydon (Fianna Fail)

I pay tribute to the Cathaoirleach and to the Leas-Chathaoirleach for the great work they have done in the past five years and for the courteous way they have behaved. I also pay particular tribute to the Clerk of the Seanad and all her staff for the courteous, effective and efficient way they do their work. They are always available, polite, kind and helpful.

I pay tribute to and congratulate the four new Members nominated by the Taoiseach. This may be the last day any of us sit here, although I hope it is not. To have been here once is an honour, while to have been here a few times is a singular honour. It is a great House whose work is not always recognised in public. Many of the great debates that took place in the past, including those concerning German reunification, East Timor, the death penalty and the peace process, in no small measure contributed to the betterment of the people of Ireland and elsewhere. Some of the speeches were relayed to other countries and, therefore, the House does have an effect.

To be a Member of this House is a great honour and I am very thankful to those who elected me. I hope all my colleagues get re-elected if they so wish. I value their friendship and companionship. It has been a unique experience to have served here with so many unique individuals like Paddy McGowan, Gordon Wilson, John Robb and Mick Lanigan. I could not name all the wonderful people who have gone before. I wish everyone the very best of luck in the election. I hope they are all re-elected and I hope to get there myself.