Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

It was an experience I will never forget. The Taoiseach made a tremendous contribution and wonderful speech. The event attended yesterday by the outgoing Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, and outgoing First Minister, the Reverend Ian Paisley, at the Battle of the Boyne site will make its mark for generations to come.

I worked closely with the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Deputy Séamus Brennan, particularly in the period from 1997 to 2002 when I was a member of the legislation committee, which the Minister established at the time to streamline the priorities of Ministers and the business of both Houses. The committee was also the instrument used to enable a large proportion of legislation to be initiated in the Seanad. Deputy Brennan has a great intellect and is a wonderful person to work with. His terrific ability has been underestimated. I wish him well and look forward to working with him again. I also welcome the incoming Taoiseach, a near neighbour and lifelong friend, Deputy Brian Cowen.

A large number of pressing issues were raised by Senators. However, the Minister of State is waiting to come before the House and I gave him my word the House would try to complete our consideration of the Twenty-eighth Amendment of the Constitution Bill 2008 before 2 p.m. With the permission of the House, I propose to respond tomorrow morning to all other matters raised. I ask the leaders to meet me after the Order of Business to agree an all-party motion on the tragedy experienced by the people of Burma. I thank Senators for their understanding on this special day.

I welcome former Senator, Mr. Brian Mullooly to the House. He and the late Senator Seán Fallon taught me most of what I learned in the Seanad. It was a great honour and privilege to serve under his stewardship and it is lovely to see him on this important day.