Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)

I am glad I was present in the House this morning for the visit of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, Mr. Drew Nelson. The wonderful speeches made by all of my colleagues enhanced the standing of this Seanad. It is hoped it was the first of many other significant events which will greatly enhance the standing of Seanad Éireann.

I welcome the safe arrival in the early hours of this morning of the competitors in the Volvo Ocean Race to Galway, which is a huge event for Galway and is the largest sporting event in Europe this summer. It has the potential to bring in excess of 600,000 people to Galway and to inject €80 million into the local economy. I pay tribute to everyone associated with the race, in particular Mr. John Killeen and Mr. Enda O'Coineen who on this occasion secured this prestigious event for Galway. I invite all members to Galway for the weekend, where they will be spoiled for choice in terms of the Connacht Fleadh in Ballinasloe and the wonderful festivities in Galway city. It is a positive day for the west and a positive week for County Galway.