I was very privileged to be nominated by the ICPSA and I acknowledge the presence of its president, Brian O'Keeffe, in the Visitors' Gallery. I thank my parliamentary party. As Senator Cassidy said, my party and our partners in Government, the Progressive Democrats, delivered me 113 out of 113 votes, which does not signify disunity in any shape or fashion. I also received the support of a very loyal group of Independent Deputies and Senators, led by that colourful Kerryman, Deputy Healy-Rae, who I also thank. I have many friends, supporters and family members from Dromcolliher with me, including my wife, Patsy, my sister, Marie, and her husband.
It is great privilege to be elected to Seanad Éireann. As was stated, I have been a member of Fianna Fáil all my life. I joined Limerick County Council in 1991 and I have worked hard and honestly since then. I was asked a couple of times this morning what my priorities are. I simply said my priorities are to continue working hard and honestly for the people who elected me. It will give me great pleasure to work with my colleague and very close personal friend, Senator Rory Kiely, in this House and my other Oireachtas colleague, Deputy Michael Collins, to serve the people of west Limerick.
My late father's name was mentioned and he is foremost in my mind today. He introduced me to politics and kept me on the right road. Although he is now up above, I believe he had an influence on this election. I think of him today and my mother who cannot be with me because she is in Lourdes. I did not send her there to pray for me.
I thank Deirdre Lane and her staff for the efficient way in which they carried out their duties this morning. I look forward to working with all the Members of the House.