Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I join with Members of the House in thanking the staff, Deirdre, Jody and the staff of the Seanad for the tremendous work they have done in the past 12 months. I also wish a happy Christmas to the Captain of the Guard who took ill during the week, the Superintendent, the head ushers, Noel Kelly and Tom McGrath, and to all of the ushers in the House. I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for his co-operation and courtesy and the acting Chairs for their great work in keeping the House going during the year. I thank all involved in the press and the television coverage this House receives. I thank the Bills Office, the reporting staff, the Library and the sound recording staff. They are the people behind the scenes who make the Houses of the Oireachtas so effective and get it across to the community at large. I wish the Leader of the House and Members a very happy and safe Christmas. I hope to see them all early in 2012.