Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail)

Ar son Seanadóirí Fhianna Fáil, cuiruim fáilte roimh Mary Robinson ar ais go dtí an Seanad tar éis beagnach 20 bliain.

I am delighted, Dr. Robinson, that you are here today. My first memory of you, which shows my age, was during the year of my intermediate certificate when the presidential campaign was at its height. Not only did you break new ground in the presidency, you broke new ground in my house in Malahide at the time, which was and still is a strong Fianna Fáil household. At the time there was a grave disagreement between my mother and father and they voted differently for the first time ever. They have continued to do so since, so you performed a great service in my house.

I have never had an opportunity to talk to you directly, but I personally want to thank you for all the work you have done on behalf of this country.