Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On this very auspicious, historic and important day glacaim ar mo shon féin agus ar son an Rialtais fíor fáilte le na Seanadóirí nua, an Seanadóir Marshall agus an Seanadóir Lawlor. I welcome them to the House. I pay tribute to them on their historic victory and wish them every success in their tenure in this House. I welcome the new Senators and commend them. Today is a very special day for them and their families, one they should cherish and look back on but they should also look forward. As the Leas-Chathaoirleach said, their achievement is one we all look forward to hearing about as both Senators managed to top the poll.

They bring to this Chamber and the Houses of the Oireachtas their own personal, individual experiences, characteristics and skills, not weaknesses as Senator Marshall said, but positivity. His opening speech is to be admired, as was Senator Lawlor's, who remembered and reflected on his mother Patsy and how proud she would be today that he is here.

I welcome Lisa and Sarah who are in the Public Gallery and thank them for giving us their Dad and husband for whatever length of time he will be in this House. They have made sacrifices and they will make more sacrifices, but it is great that they are here to join in Senator Marshall's great day.

I join with Senator Ardagh in remembering Senators Ó Clochartaigh and Landy and thank them for their civic duty. Today is a very proud day for all of us in this House. As Senator Marshall said, it is the first time a member of the unionist community has been elected to Seanad Éireann. It is a day on which we can all celebrate and rejoice.

I also thank the former Senator, our colleague and friend, Senator Jim D'Arcy, for his stewardship and minding Ian during the course of the campaign. I remind Senator Conway-Walsh, that as Senator Feighan said, the Fine Gael Party is the united Ireland party.