Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I congratulate Senator Cummins on becoming Leader of the House. I thank the Cathaoirleach for the even-handed approach he adopted in this House over the last four years. I thank the staff of the House as well for their co-operation and excellent advice over many years. I offer my best wishes to those Members seeking re-election and I wish those who have decided to call it a day well in their retirement. It was a privilege to work with all the Senators in this House over the last number of Seanad terms, particularly the last one. It was a good Seanad and we passed some good legislation in this House. The Seanad is a great Chamber in which to scrutinise legislation and I hope that whatever legislation is introduced in the years ahead will provide the same level of scrutiny that previous Bills received in this House over many years. The country would be the poorer if this does not happen or if proposals are not put in place to ensure that. I wish the Cathaoirleach and those who are retiring well.