Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I offer congratulations to a few people. I would like to congratulate Clarke railway station in Dundalk on winning the overall award for best train station in Ireland. Voting was conducted through an online poll and in railway stations. Customers were asked to rate their station under the criteria of customer co-operation and information, station appearance, staff helpfulness, hanging baskets, absence of litter, flowers, etc. The Iarnród Éireann awards reward excellence in customer facilities, cleanliness, innovation and customer service in the country's 144 railway stations. It was a major achievement for the manager of Dundalk station, Mr. Anthony Monaghan, and, as he says himself, "his brilliant staff". I would like to acknowledge the contribution his predecessor made over many years. Mr. Brendan McQuaid's contribution was enormous and the staff under him were active in promoting the station for at least 20 years. The award is just rewards.

My colleague, Senator Jim D'Arcy, mentioned Chief Superintendent Pat Magee from the Louth-Meath division, who is retiring this week. I would like to acknowledge his contribution to law and order. He started off as sergeant in my home town of Carlingford and he made a major contribution during the Troubles. I wish him, his wife Concepta, and his family many happy years of retirement.