Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Before I call on the Leader, as Cathaoirleach and on a personal level I would like to pay tribute to the outgoing Taoiseach. I found him extremely cordial and professional in my dealings with him as Cathaoirleach, Leas-Chathaoirleach and a Deputy. When I was in the Dáil I always found him very courteous and a gentleman to deal with. Whatever about political differences, he deserves some time in the sunset with his wife, Fionnuala, and his family. I wish him the very best.

The Minister for Finance, Deputy Noonan, who is a very affable, quiet-spoken gentleman from Limerick, has, like the Taoiseach, served the nation for many years, with many personal and political ups and downs. I would also like to wish him the very best in his retirement as a Minister.I expect both the outgoing Taoiseach, Deputy Enda Kenny, and the outgoing Minister for Finance, Deputy Michael Noonan, to spend less pressurised years in the other House.

With those few words of gratitude and respect, I ask the Leader of the House to respond to the Order of Business.