Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The people of Ireland made a significant and monumental decision. What stood out in the campaign was the considerable debate on radio and television. Everyone who participated on both sides of the argument is to be complimented on informing the general public about all of the issues pertaining to the referendum. Democracy was well served and people made their decisions based on everything they had heard. The outcome was a good day for our citizens who have felt undervalued and under-respected down the decades.

I join Senator Eamonn Coghlan in extending our deepest sympathy to the family of the late Bill O'Herlihy, a much loved and much respected journalist. Some of us remember when he presented "7 Days", including that famous programme about moneylending all of those years ago, where he cut his teeth in the world of politics. We were present with him on every great sporting occasion for the country. He was a wonderful businessman who lived life to the full and brought out the best in everyone with whom he worked. It was great to hear former colleagues speaking with such high regard for him and the advice and mentoring he gave many through the years.What an exit. He attended the Irish Film and Television Awards on Sunday night in great form and then left the stage. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

I congratulate the Leas-Chathaoirleach and Senator Conway on the publication and launch of the document on farm safety in the audio-visual room earlier. It is appropriate that it should be published this time of year when the farm is the busiest place in the world with so much activity. All the people who participated in the hearings and fed into that wonderful report should be complimented but it is incumbent on all of us to highlight its contents. I look forward to a lengthy debate in the House and to ensuring we focus people's attention on farm safety.