John Ellis (Fianna Fail)

Like other Members, I wish the very best to the Cathaoirleach, the staff of the House, the Clerk, the Clerk's assistants, the ushers, the Captain and the Superintendent. Having got the niceties out of the way, one thing was made very clear yesterday. As Senator Quinn mentioned, it appears our economy may at last have bottomed out and started to improve. If that is the case, we will have to examine how our resources will be spent in continuing the upturn that we hope commenced yesterday. This House will have to keep an eye on such matters in the new year.

We have raised a number of issues in recent months that have not been dealt with. I know that in the new year the Leader will ensure we have a full debate on the flooding problems in which everybody will have time to make a contribution. Sometimes the seven or eight minute slots are too short for people to make their contribution. This can be worked out between the Whips and party leaders.

I particularly wish Senator Buttimer a happy Christmas. He has been very useful as an electrode for many of us. If we go off line he will throw in a barb that will bring us to real life. While he might not think it, we all appreciate it because it brings banter and good humour. I know the Cathaoirleach has problems with it at times but we have to accept it.