Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail)

You have been an absolute credit in every role you played, particularly that of President, but also when you followed on as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. I remember your trip to Somalia vividly as if it was only yesterday. Lighting a candle in the window of Áras an Uachtaráin was symbolic, but you did shine a light into the darkest corners of this world on behalf of the Irish people. That is something the people of Ireland will never forget. I am delighted that you are continuing in your advocacy role and in your many other roles in this country. Your experience, along with the experience of our most recent President, is very valuable in these difficult times for Ireland, Europe and indeed the rest of the world.

Given that he is Leader of the Upper House, Senator Cummins gets the opportunity to say everything I was going to say, so I will be brief. The Leader has outlined what we are trying to do in the Seanad. As someone who has served in the Dáil and in the Seanad, I personally believe there is a great role for this Chamber in the future. I would be most interested, Dr. Robinson, to hear your views on how Seanad Éireann can represent Irish citizens better in modern Ireland.

The public consultation committee, on which Members from all groups serve, is a very important initiative. We have focused on the human rights of older people. It is incumbent on us - your reputation on this is second to none - to look after people who are vulnerable and marginalised, and that includes the elderly, the poor and people in the developing world. The narrative at the moment is all about the economy, which is understandable, but it is incumbent on us not to forget our society and not to forget those who are less well off than us and those who do not even have a house over their heads.

My Fianna Fáil Party colleagues and I are absolutely delighted you are here today. Your opening remarks were most interesting, but I would like to hear your views about the Seanad in the future, and also about Ireland's standing in the developing world. We have a great reputation here, but there is a debate on overseas development aid and whether the budget should be cut, and what this might do to Ireland's name in the developing world. Since you visited so many of these countries, I would be most interested to hear your views on how we should proceed with ensuring that foreign development aid is to the forefront of everything we do, but in this Government and any future government.

I am delighted that your are here. My father forgives you. My parents are back talking after 20 years. I am delighted you have graced us with your presence, so thank you again.