Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before I call Senator Keogan, I wish to associate myself personally with the words of welcome from Senator Buttimer and the Cathaoirleach to Liam Ahearn. I am aware that Liam served on Tipperary County Council for ten years and was the chairperson of that body. He was a very distinguished public representative in his own right. All of us realise that the support of our families is critical to us being able to do this job. Without that support we could not do it. The great work Senator Ahearn does here is in no small way due to the support of and inspiration and mentioning from his wonderful father, Liam. I join in Members' welcome to him.

I also welcome to the gallery students of the fifth and sixth classes student council from Lusk Senior National School, Fingal. In fact, I had an historic association with that school for many a day. I might meet some of them later. I also welcome their teacher, Erica, who is a friend of the Leader of the House. Senator Doherty is anxious that I welcome our guests. They may wish to wait until the end of the Order of Business, if they can, when the Leader will offer her own welcome to them. We had better move on or it will be evening before we finish.