Michael Comiskey (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join colleagues in wishing Jimmy Walsh well in his retirement. I have been a Senator for less than two years and those of us who are relatively new to the House have come to know Jimmy very quickly. He always has a friendly smile and is willing to offer advice.

I welcome the news that the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, has agreed to send helicopters to the aid of farmers in Northern Ireland who are experiencing great difficulties as a result of the bad weather. It is good that we are going to help our friends and neighbours. The past year has been extremely difficult for the farming community and recent weeks have been very bad, particularly for those who live in Northern Ireland. It is good to witness this type of co-operation between North and South. In the past I have called for greater co-operation in respect of animal health issues. I welcome the fact that such co-operation will now be forthcoming and that assistance will be provided to farmers who are in difficulties.