Mark Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The combined opening speech of the proposer, the Father of the House, Senator Norris, and the seconder shall not exceed 16 minutes but, let us be honest, on a day like today that will probably not be observed. I will allow loads of latitude on that. Before I call Senator Norris, I thank him for coming to the House today to propose this legislation - one of many Bills he has proposed throughout his service to Leinster House as the longest continuously serving Senator in the history of the State - on Bloomsday, a day so associated with Ireland and the Senator. It was an honour to have him here today for the dedication and unveiling of his portrait. For the first time, we have a portrait of a sitting Member in Leinster House in acknowledgement of his great, long and distinguished service to the State and the Seanad. Senator Norris is most welcome back to Leinster House. We look forward to hearing his contribution.