Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On this historic occasion, it is not possible but to reflect on how fortunate we are to have a democracy in this country. We see how difficult the commencement of peace talks have been in Syria and the various appalling situations people are facing around the world. We in Ireland have a democracy where power transfers seamlessly from one Administration to another. There were many young people in the Visitors Gallery this morning and I hope that is something they will reflect on and take away from their visit.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his courtesy over the past five years and congratulate him on his 23rd anniversary in the House. I thank, too, the Leas-Chathaoirleach and the staff of the House, all of whom have been the essence of courtesy and helpfulness to Members. As previous speakers said, the Leader has done an amazing job.That is acknowledged by everybody. I wish him well and thank him. I also thank the Deputy Leader, Senator Bacik. I wish all of the retiring Members well, particularly Senators Quinn and Walsh, who are long-serving Members of the House.

It has been a wonderful experience to have served in the House with people who are household names and whom I admired in many guises. I was an avid watcher of "Oireachtas Report" and saw many Members in action over the years. It has been particularly pleasant for me to see how courteous everybody was towards each other and how well everybody worked for the betterment of the country and to improve legislation. I never imagined that five years on from 2011, when the country was in a very difficult situation, we would now be heading into an election in a much more optimistic and positive place. The Government was given a job to do - namely, to fix the public finances and get people back to work - and, despite the fact that mistakes were made, we are, on balance, in a much better place today. I wish all of my colleagues who are contesting the general election every success. I hope they will vacate their seats in the Seanad and find themselves in the Lower House. I wish all of my colleagues who will contest the forthcoming Seanad elections well.

My experience over the past five years has been wonderful. I was astounded by the volume of legislation that came through the House, particularly over the past year. Many very difficult and significant issues that had lain around for quite some time were addressed during the lifetime of this Administration. I express my sincere thanks to everybody for their wonderful courtesy, support and guidance over the past five years. It is to be hoped many of us will meet back here in the next Seanad in the middle of April.