Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

He worked closely with Senator Wilson. It was much more difficult to manage the smaller group of Fianna Fáil Senators to ensure that we looked after our side of the House. He did that magnificently and there were occasions when he stepped into the breach, something that is not on the record, but I want to acknowledge it. That ensured the smooth and effective running of the House. I want to wish Senator Wilson well in the elections, as well as all other colleagues who are running.

Senator Mullen briefly touched on the camaraderie in the House. To the outside world, the cut and thrust of politics comes across through the media, but all of us who are Members of the House know there is collegiality. In a sense, we look after each other, and life is not perhaps as difficult politically as the outside world might think. That ensures the effective running of this democratic institution. I pay tribute to Senators Quinn and Walsh, in particular. Senator Quinn has left an astonishing legacy. He has put 17 Bills through the House as an Independent Senator, which is an extraordinary record. Several of the Bills were successful and the Government took them on board. Irrespective of the other facets of his extraordinary life, Senator Quinn has left a rich legacy of legislation in this House and I wish him and his family every happiness in his retirement.

Senator Walsh came into this House as a Member of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party and I am particularly pleased he is leaving it as a full member of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party.