Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

This issue has been even more relevant over the past few weeks as we move through a huge amount of legislation at such a quick speed. Our secretarial assistants sometimes work above and beyond the hours they should be working, going through the legislation with us line by line. This applies especially to Independent Senators because we do not have a huge amount of staff and resources. We rely heavily on each other within our group.

I believe that we do not acknowledge each other enough. I would like to acknowledge the leader of the Civil Engagement Group. She would be raging if she walked in now. I am absolutely honoured to work with such a powerhouse. She does not only think about herself or domestic issues: her vision is far-reaching for Ireland, for the globe, for Europe. Seeing the way in which she approaches every single piece of legislation, I do not believe I would have the level of smarts to be able to actually understand such nuance in the way she does. I also acknowledge Senator Seery Kearney, from whom I have learned a huge amount.