I wish to announce for the information of the House that I received the following communication from Deputy John Bruton yesterday, 1 November.
Dear Ceann Comhairle,
I write to inform you that I intend to resign my seat in Dáil Éireann as and from 1 November 2004 to allow me to take up appointment as EU Head of Delegation in the United States.
I take this opportunity to thank you, your predecessors in office and my fellow Members, and the staff of the Houses, for their kindness to me over so many years.
Yours sincerely,
John Bruton.
In accordance with the provisions of Standing Order 167, the resignation took effect upon my receipt of the notice.