Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I wish Members and their families a happy Christmas and a peaceful new year. I am sure we will all return to the House after the recess with renewed vigour and ready to tackle whatever we face.

There have been some low points in the Seanad this year but there have also been a number of highlights. Two of those highlights were the visits of Dr. Maurice Manning and the former President, Mrs. Mary Robinson. With the exception of the Taoiseach and Tánaiste, every Minister has come before the House. In addition, time was made available for most of the debates that were requested. I hope that will continue to be the position in the new year. I again wish everyone a happy and holy Christmas and a very peaceful new year.