Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)
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Prior to asking the Leader to outline the Order of Business, on my own behalf and that of Seanad Éireann and the Houses of the Oireachtas, I pay tribute and a word of thanks to our Superintendent, Mr. Noel Murphy, who joins us in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery. Today is Noel's last day in Leinster House. He has played a huge part in the life of these Houses, serving us and the staff for more than 24 years. During that time, he has seen significant change. Tellingly for us as Members, he was part of the counts for Seanad Éireann, which is where I first met him, and knows the highs and lows of those Seanad counts. As a member of staff here, he has worked with all of us, recognising the work we do collectively, and has never been anything other than respectful, irrespective of one's political views or ideology. He has had a long and distinguished career in the Civil Service, previously working in the then Department of Posts and Telegraphs and Departments relating to social welfare, education and tourism, sport and recreation before arriving in Leinster House.

As a member of staff for 16 years, Noel has always looked after the interests and needs of Members and staff and put others first in everything he has done, with great respect, care and courtesy. No problem was too small or too big. Every request was dealt with the utter discretion and professionalism we came to expect from Noel. He always found solutions, even if the solution was not always the one we wanted. He has served these Houses with distinction as an ambassador, a communicator and a manager. As we all know, thanks to his dedication and pride in his work, he comes to work every morning with a smile on his face and a joke. He is always in good humour. On my behalf and that of Members, I thank him most sincerely for his years of service and wish him well. Members will know that aside from Noel's day job, he will be remembered for being Santa Claus at Leinster House every Christmas Eve. Today is a special day. Noel's wife, Fiona, is here and three of his children are watching the proceedings online. I thank Aoife, Daniel, Caitlin and Sofia for sharing their dad with us, and Fiona for allowing us to be part of his life. Míle buíochas.