Alex White (Labour)

I have seen that humanity not just publicly across the floor, but also in other business we have had to transact, not all of which was easy. The Cathaoirleach has carried out his duties with great flair, understanding and decency and deserves the thanks of the House. I mentioned yesterday that the Clerk and Clerk Assistant deserve our thanks and appreciation, as do all the people who work in this building and support us in the work we do.

I have tended not to thank Ministers when they come to this House, because I think they are only doing their job. Also, I do not believe most of them expect to be thanked in that sense, although common courtesy is important. Ministers and Ministers of State are doing the job the people have entrusted them with and do not require to be thanked at the drop of a hat. I am sure the Minister understands what I mean and that not thanking him is not meant as a discourtesy.

I wish my colleagues on all sides of the House well, both those who are retiring and those running for election to the other House. Mention was made of the Dáil constituency of Dublin South earlier and it was suggested another candidate will arrive into it. We are thinking of renaming the constituency Terminal Two, because there have been so many arrivals and departures to the constituency in the past year and a half. However, we will have that election.