Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On my own behalf and that of the Fine Gael group, I congratulate Senator Coghlan. I did not know there were going to be tears and beauties home this evening. The emotion that the Senator showed at the announcement of his appointment is a demonstration of the love and affection that he has for this House and for the Seanad Chamber. I congratulate him and pay tribute to his wife Peggy, his sons and daughters and his brother Michael, who are seated in the Visitors' Gallery. I welcome them all here today and congratulate him. He will bring his keen sense of fairness and equity to his new role. We all look forward to working with him and wish him every success.