James Heffernan (Labour) | Oireachtas source

The House engaged in a two-hour debate on the budget last night. I did not get into it last night and I certainly do not intend going on and on criticising it today. I do not think others should use the opportunity to do that either. On a personal note, I would like to welcome my mother who is in the public Gallery. I take this opportunity to wish her a very happy birthday. I thank her for being a great Ma and for all that she does for me.

I agree with Senator Eamonn Coghlan’s sentiments on the unfortunate retirement of Paul O’Connell, who is a terrific Limerick man and one of the greatest and most inspirational of leaders on the rugby field. His absence will be a huge loss to Irish rugby. He was captain of Young Munster, Munster, Ireland and the British and Irish Lions. We will not see his like again. I am reminded of calls I made at the time of Henry Shefflin’s retirement to the effect that the introduction of an honours system should be considered. Under such a system, either the Office of the President or the Oireachtas could honour people who have given great service for club and country on the sporting field. I ask the Leader to bring this proposal to the attention of the relevant line Minister or the President.