Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As this is our final sitting day, I wish, like everyone else, to pay warm tribute to the Cathaoirleach. I sat in front of a number of chairpersons during my days in local government. The manner and professionalism with which the Cathaoirleach has chaired proceedings here and his fairness are an example. If they are writing a template on chairing, they should have a good word with the Cathaoirleach and, indeed, with Aisling in the Seanad Office in terms of how she manages his offices and so forth.

I would also like to pay tribute to the Leader, Senator Cummins, who is inspirational. This is my first time serving as a member of the House but by all accounts he has set an unprecedented standard in the way he has done his business. I also acknowledge his private secretary, Orla, and, indeed, Frankie and Lauren and the staff of the House, all of whom deserve our praise. They are courteous beyond belief. I also thank Deirdre, Martin, Ronan, Niamh, Keishia - who came before Niamh - all the ushers, the Journal Office staff and so forth for the way they look after us. It makes our job easier when we are dealt with by such courteous people.

Senator Ó Domhnaill said he was not born when Senator Walsh came into the House. I looked up the date of the 1974 local elections on Google and I can tell the House that I was 24 days old when Senator Walsh was elected.