Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

I add my words to those of my colleague in the Whip's office, Senator Wilson, in congratulating Shay Byrne on his retirement. Somehow I do not believe Shay will retire because he is not that type of person. I acknowledge the great co-operation I have received from him since I became a Member of the House. He is courtesy personified.

Shay's recent trip to Tír na nÓg is reflected in his youthful look. I have no doubt we will see plenty of him in the future. As Senator Cassidy noted, he likes to play with a little white ball on the golf links. I suspect he will continue to drive it straight down the fairway and putt it without problems.

Liam Lynch is another very courteous member of the ushers team in the Houses. One of the things that struck me when I entered the House in 1997 was the great courtesy shown by staff at all levels. One could not ask for better and there were no greater exponents of that fine tradition than Shay Byrne and Liam Lynch. I wish Shay the best in his retirement. May he enjoy good health. To echo the remarks of Senator O'Toole, I hope he will draw his pension for as long as he has paid into it. One cannot wish him anything better than this.