Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I also extend a very warm welcome to our visitors. I hope they enjoy their day.

It gives me great pleasure to extend a very special birthday wish to a very special individual, namely, Councillor Ian McGarvey from Ramelton in County Donegal who turns 92 tomorrow. He truly is a remarkable man indeed. He was first elected to Donegal County Council aged 73 years. He went on to serve as mayor of Donegal at 82 and in 2018, aged 88, he was mayor of Letterkenny. In the 2016 general election, he was the oldest ever candidate at 85 years. He is a role model for us all. It proves you can never been too young or old to stand in political life and that people of older years should never be dismissed. We all know how important it is to encourage young people, and especially women, to get involved in politics. That is something we must continue to do but we should never lose sight of the benefit of years of experience too. Councillor Ian McGarvey proves that age should never be a barrier.

They say that behind every great man there is an even better woman and in Ian's case that is true. His life partner is Marjorie, and only a few weeks ago they celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary. They really are a remarkable couple. It gives me great pleasure to wish them a very special wedding anniversary and Ian a very happy birthday. I wish them continued good health and happiness for many years to come.I would be grateful if the Deputy Leader would send a little note of congratulation to them both on behalf of us all.