Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

He would far outweigh me in that department. He has had a remarkable and very colourful, productive and fulfilling career.

He championed the decriminalisation of homosexuality between adult gay men, after he won his case in Europe. The then Minister, Máire Geoghegan-Quinn, acceded to introducing legislation to facilitate that decision. He is the father of the House in more ways than one. I think he is a little older than 30 years and seven months, but I will leave that matter to him.

Senator Norris is held in high regard by me and many Senators, including those who are no longer here - people who have lost seats and so on. It is a wonderful occasion for Senator Norris and it is appropriate to mark it on 30 November, the last day of the month. He is not yet a holy soul but he is getting close to it. It is appropriate to mark the occasion with a few words of tribute. As Cathaoirleach, I am very honoured to have served with him and to be Cathaoirleach at a time when he is still active in the House. I wish him a long service in the Seanad and, on a personal level, the best of health. I hope he has a good Christmas. We are all very lucky that we are here for Christmas. We are fortunate.

I will allow the Leader to speak because we have a lot of business today. Whoever wishes to speak on the Order of Business can mention Senator Norris. I will not stop anyone who wishes to speak.