Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)
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Before I call the Leader, I would like to inform the House that today is the last day the Head Usher, Mr. Tom McGrath, will take part in the proceedings of the House. Tom has served the Houses for over 37 years. He joined as an usher in 1977. He rose through the ranks and was appointed Head Usher in 2011, a role in which he has served with distinction. Tom has been a quiet observer of many changes during the years, witnessing the euphoria of elections and the hard realities of defeat for Governments and Members alike. He has always looked after the interests and the needs of all the Members with courtesy and respect and any problem needing attention or a request for assistance was dealt with quietly and professionally. Regardless of the problem there were always only solutions. Tom's success in reaching the highest level in the usher grade is a testament to his abilities as a communicator and manager and his dedication to and pride in his work. I am sure I speak for all the Senators in the House today in thanking Tom for his many years of service and wishing him many years of happy retirement.