Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I extend my sincere congratulations to you, a Chathaoirligh. I know you will be one of the finest Cathaoirligh ever. You served for nine years as Leas-Chathaoirleach during which time I found you to be extremely fair and able. I am delighted you have been elected unanimously by the House, rightly so. I wish you every success.

This is an historic Seanad: the 24th Seanad is the Seanad of all the talents. I compliment the Taoiseach on his imaginative appointment of the 11 Senators he nominated, as well as those who elected the other 49. They were brilliant choices.

The report produced by Mary O'Rourke on Seanad reform should be read by every Member. We should use it as a template for reform of the House. It is to be a case of reform, redundancy or abolition. Reform is the way forward.

I compliment Senator David Norris on making one of the finest speeches he ever made in this House.I had the honour of meeting Queen Elizabeth II last week and said to her that she made the finest speech of the 21st century. Senator Norris made the second best speech of the 21st century.