Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

He is indeed.

Senator Gavan raised the matter of human rights in Bahrain in the context of two people who are threatened with execution on Christmas Day. As I said before, there is a need for us, as a Government, to be very proactive with regard to human rights around the world and not to sell our soul for business. I have a very simple view on that. We must get the balance right. We should never recoil or withdraw from promoting human rights and calling people out. I agree with the Senator in this case. Bahrain's policy on human rights in unacceptable and leaves an awful lot to be desired.Senator Paddy Burke raised the issue of the renewal of driving licences. He makes a very good point and I would be happy for the Minister to come to the House in the new year.

Senator Colm Burke raised the issue of medical negligence and the increased costs. The Joint Committee on Health that I chaired and of which he was a very valuable member did some work on that. It is a source of concern and I would be happy for the Minister to come to the House in the new year.

Finally, mar fhocal scoir, I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach and the Cathaoirleach for their stewardship of the House, as well as the Acting Chairmen. I wish the Cathaoirleach a very healthy 2020 and the same to the Leas-Chathaoirleach. I thank the Acting Chairmen for their strong role in the House and note they always helped to keep the debate flowing.

I welcome the Minister for Finance to the House. He is in the Visitors Gallery.

I thank all the people in the Seanad Office led by Ms Bridget Doody and Mr. Martin Groves, our Clerk, for their courtesy, professionalism and good humour even in the face of adversity and tension and for the very good advice they give the Chairs, who sometimes might not listen to them.