Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, and in my own personal capacity, I welcome Tom to the Distinguished Visitors Gallery today. I pay tribute to him and thank him most sincerely for his dedicated service of more than 23 years to the Oireachtas. Those of us who have served in the House for a long time will know that Tom has been one of the gentlemen of Leinster House. He is always courteous to Members, staff and visitors. He has gone above and beyond the call of duty on many different occasions to ensure that the Houses of the Oireachtas run smoothly and efficiently. When he joined us back in 2001 as an usher, he was promoted to team leader and then became deputy head usher in 2012. To me, he has been a great, shining light of the Oireachtas, as well as being a very proud member of the Oireachtas rugby team. He led the team to the Rugby World Cup in Paris this year.

I wish Tom, Lorraine and their family, a very happy and health retirement, and the very best of luck. Gabhaim míle buíochas leis.