I am sure all Deputies, particularly those who have been around for a number of years, will know of the outstanding contribution Norah White has made over the years in the restaurant. Norah has been the longest ever administrator of the Dáil restaurant, having occupied the post for the past 48 years. She has responsibility for the restaurant and its accounts and will retire next week. It is said that an army marches on its belly. Norah has supervised the nourishment of many Members for a great number of years. On behalf of the Ceann Comhairle and Members, I wish her every good fortune, success and good health in her well-deserved and merited retirement next week.
Tributes on the Retirement of Members of Staff
I would like to add the name of Mr. Padraic Donlon, a principal officer in the Houses, who has sat at the desk in front of me on numerous occasions and is also retiring. Deputies will join me in wishing both Norah and Padraic many years of happiness and good health.
I also wish Norah White a happy retirement. It is some achievement to keep Deputies and Senators fed for 48 years. Good food, particularly early in the morning, can lend itself to a good mood in the Chamber.
Deputy Martin had better start eating good food.
Norah has made a contribution to a happy mood, although the Ceann Comhairle may not agree, in terms of the demeanour and behaviour of the House at times.
Food tastes have changed over the years and I have no doubt Norah could write a book about the different approaches to food adopted by various Deputies from different parts of the country. It is often said that our tribe is known as the guys who like their dinner in the middle of the day. I often feel sorry for some of the restaurant staff because the requests Deputies make from time to time do not always conform to the wishes of the chef and kitchen staff. Norah deserves great credit for keeping us all well fed and nourished in the application of our duties. I also wish Padraic Donlon a very happy retirement.
Ba mhaith liom cúpla focal a rá mar bhuíochas do Norah fosta. Sílim gurb í an bhialann an áit is fearr san institiúid seo. The restaurant is one of the better parts of the House. I thank Norah for administering to us for a very long time and extend my best wishes to her and her family. Tá súil agam go n-éireoidh go breá le Pádraic freisin.
On behalf of the Technical Group, I thank Norah White and Padraic Donlon for their service over the years and extend my best wishes to them and their families on their retirement.
Norah White has been here for longer than I have, which is quite some time. I believe she has been in the Oireachtas for about as long as the Taoiseach and she looks as fresh as a daisy and in good health. In wishing her every success, I bemoan the fact that she has overseen the introduction of a new type of cuisine in the self-service restaurant. I much prefer bacon and cabbage to the stuff covered with sauce. Perhaps that message will get through.
Deputy Stagg's contribution is made on behalf of older Members.