Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the deserved warm tributes to Senator McAleese. He is an extremely courteous and kind man, quiet, effective and easy to deal with. I salute the work he did in regard to the Magdalen laundries, which often took him away from the House and involved a lot of research and analysis. I look forward to the publication of the report and, with the Leader's help, its debate in the House.

As was pointed out, his greatest achievement during his time here was his work behind the scenes with people in the North, and, in particular, bringing the Orange Order south for that day in the House was tremendous. It reflected well upon the Seanad but, apart from that, it was an important day in the continuing peace process and the building involved in that. On a lighter note, for me, as Government Whip, he never caused any difficulty in the slightest. I know he voted against us twice but we understood that. I salute the work he did and wish him well.

I want to thank and compliment sincerely the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, who has responsibility for the Office of Public Works, for his instruction and decision that the spectacular ancestral home of the Liberator, Daniel O'Connell, will remain open throughout the season, which, down there, has traditionally been from Easter to September.

The major upgrade and construction works and the ¤2 million being provided for it by Fáilte Ireland are very important and long overdue. I will not criticise anyone opposite. The work will not happen during the season because people travel long distances to come and see the place. It is fair to say that Derrynane House and gardens is one of the great tourism gems. I would go as far as to say it is on a par with Muckross House and gardens in our major national park in Killarney. I thank the Minister for ensuring that this spectacular attraction will remain open, with all of the local employment it provides. We should also remember that a major event for The Gathering is planned for that house in September. I say "Well done" and wish the work well in the winter time.