Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We should listen to community groups, the people we meet in the supermarket and the ones walking up the street in Cootehill. They will soon tell me what is happening and what we need to change. I would not worry too much about social media.

I thank Senators for all their kind comments. It has been an honour and privilege for me to serve as a Minister over ten years and, in particular, in the past four and a half years as Minister for Social Protection.I have worked with fantastic staff. They have been very diligent in their work. Senator Mary Seery Kearney mentioned Pauric McPhillips. Pauric McPhillips just had a beautiful little daughter. Maybe he is even watching in with his wife Laura and Olivia. We wish him well. Of course, I have so many other fantastic staff. As I often say to the staff, right across the board, they make me look good. There you go. You have to have good staff.

This will probably be the last time I address the Seanad. I thank you all for the courtesy, support and collegiality over the past ten years. It has been a privilege. I believe that together we have made a difference to so many people’s lives.

Cootehill was mentioned. The people of Cavan and Monaghan gave me the chance to come here. They sent me here on three occasions. I thank my Fine Gael colleagues for the opportunity they gave me. It has been fantastic.

I have been asked about women in politics. Be confident, believe in yourself, be honest with yourself and just go on, go out there and go for it. That is all I say to women in politics.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his indulgence.