Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on recent developments in the eurozone and the European Council summit, to be taken on the conclusion of the Order of Business and to conclude no later than 12.30 p.m., with the contributions of group spokespersons not to exceed eight minutes, those of all other Senators not to exceed five minutes and the Minister to be called on to reply no later than 12.25 p.m.

As this is the final Order of Business of the year, I thank the Cathaoirleach and his staff, the Clerk, Ms Deirdre Lane, and Clerk Assistant, Ms Jody Blake, Ms Rachel Breen, Ms Bernadette Constantine, Ms Aisling Harte and my private secretary, Ms Orla Murray, as it is they who ensure that the House ticks over and we are all on our best behaviour. I also thank the Superintendent, the Captain of the Guard and the ushers who are so helpful and courteous to Members at all times.