Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before I call the Leader to reply to the Order of Business, I congratulate the President-elect of America and the Vice President-elect, Donald Trump and JD Vance, on their election. As Members know, Ireland is celebrating a centenary of diplomatic relations with the United States. We as parliamentarians will work with the new Administration and the new Congress to ensure the shared goals of Ireland and America are further developed. We wish the new Administration well.

I may not be here tomorrow, so I thank the Members of the House for their courtesy to me in my term as Cathaoirleach. It has been the pleasure and privilege of a lifetime to serve in this position. My job has been made easy, and difficult, by all of you. I thank Senators for the friendship and spirit that we all entered into in this debating Chamber, which is the Upper House of the Oireachtas. I also thank the staff for their dedication and commitment not just to the Houses of the Oireachtas but to the people of Ireland. That is the parliamentary community.

I refer to how Members think we rule amendments Bills to out of order. As other Cathaoirligh will testify, Martin Groves and I will sit down, go through amendments and debate them. We will make decisions not because it is yea or nay but because it is the right thing to do. We do that, and I know you do as well.

I thank Senators. I wish well those going for election. I wish well also those not seeking re-election. There may not be anybody in that category; I am not sure. I thank Senators for making the past two years of my term as Cathaoirleach a pleasure and enjoyment. I also sincerely thank staff members.