Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

I join the Leader of House in wishing everyone a happy Christmas. I thank the Cathaoirleach and all the staff of the Houses for their help during the year. I think I can speak for all my colleagues who are serving in this House for the first time when I say we are delighted to be here. On behalf of the Senators on this side of the House, I pay tribute to the Fine Gael team throughout the country. I thank those who have worked hard and supported us. As there is such a focus on consumer spending at this time of the year, we should bear in mind the importance of setting time aside for friendship. Perhaps we need to focus a little more on that. I thank Senators and the staff of the Oireachtas for their courtesy and help. I wish everyone involved with the work of the Houses a happy Christmas.