Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before I call on the Deputy Leader to reply to the Order of Business, I wish all here, Members of the House and members of the parliamentary community, all of our staff from all parts of Leinster House and all of their families a very peaceful and happy Christmas. As many Members have said this morning, our world is really at an inflection point. For peace and goodwill to continue, it does need political leadership from all of us. We are very conscious of the strife in the world today. Senator Clonan rightly remembered today Private Seán Rooney, who was tragically killed this time last year. We think of him today and we thank all of our men and women in our armed forces and Garda Síochána who serve and protect us every day. I wish you all a very happy Christmas. I particularly thank the Cathaoirleach's staff, Aisling Hart and Amanda Carney and all the team in the Seanad office led by Martin Groves and Bridget Doody. I thank Ruth and Avril in my team for looking after me as well. I thank you for your courtesy during the year. Despite a couple of bumps, I hope we have got to the end of the year although I will not pre-empt what might happen later in the day. I call on the Deputy Leader to respond to the Order of Business.