Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will begin by thanking our colleague, Senator Keogan, for organising a wonderful fundraiser for UNICEF this morning. I thank her, Ms Samantha Long, Ms Reka Szocs and the catering staff in Leinster House for the wonderful work done this morning. In particular, I thank Senator Keogan for her wonderful work in gathering the ambassadors to come in to raise funds for UNICEF. Peter Power, the chief executive of UNICEF Ireland, was present, as was the Turkish ambassador.

Before I call Leader to outline the Order of Business, I welcome the Bulgarian ambassador, Ms Gergana Karadjova. I thank her for being here. I am delighted that we have this opportunity to congratulate the people of Bulgaria on their national day, which takes place on Friday next, 3 March. I also welcome Mr. Rosen Spasov, the deputy ambassador. Today is the first day of spring, which, in native Bulgarian tradition, is Baba Marta. We wish the ambassador and deputy ambassador every success on Bulgaria's national day. We thank Bulgaria for its friendship.

Speaking of friendship, I also welcome to the Gallery the British ambassador, Mr. Paul Johnston, who is very welcome. He is joined by Mr. Jeremy Wilmshurst and Mr. Conor Doherty. I thank them for being here. Mr. Johnston's visit today is significant in light of the importance of the events taking place this week. We look forward to further engagement with him in the coming weeks and months. I thank him for his work and friendship. We hope that we will celebrate differently on the rugby field.