Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I join with the Cathaoirleach in welcoming here today the former Senator Brian Mullooley, after 21 years of service to this House. We also welcome former Deputy and Senator, Martin Joe O'Toole, who is also returning on this very historic day.

I wish the Taoiseach every success. He is retiring only as Taoiseach and is not retiring from public life. He will be prominent in the years ahead. He has great experience and is one of the most popular leaders this country has ever had. We are very fortunate in Fianna Fáil to have the calibre of person like Deputy Brian Cowen to replace him. I am fortunate in being the only Member of this House to have served under six Taoisigh, five of whom were from the Fianna Fáil Party. That is unique, and it is also unique for the Cathaoirleach to be in his position today. I look forward to the events later in the day.