Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before I call on the Leas-Chathaoirleach to conclude proceedings, I again thank an uachtarán for being here and for his powerful address to us. I commend the Members of the House on their thoughtful contributions. They were not speeches of acclamation but a critical critique of the GAA and policy, for which I thank the Members.

I sincerely thank Declan McBennett and Marty Morrissey from RTÉ. Senator Ó Donnghaile made reference to the issues concerning the coverage of games in the North. I compliment our broadcasters on the joy that they bring to citizens every weekend and every day; it is a service that one should not take for granted. The joy that Marty Morrissey's commentary brings to people, but equally, there is Des Cahill who can be heard on a programme at between 6.30 a.m. and 7.30 a.m. or on a Saturday and Sunday. We thank them for the information that our broadcasters give to people all over the world.

A uachtarán, I do think, arising from today, that the work of Mary McAleese is critical and wish her every success because it is important that we move to one organisation, in my view. With those concluding remarks, I wish to say to Tom Ryan, and his team in Croke Park, that we appreciate the work that they do on our behalf. I also thank Teresa Rehill for the courtesy that she has shown at all times to us, as Members of the Oireachtas, and I am sorry that she could not be here today. It behoves me to ask an Leas-Chathaoirleach to conclude proceedings.