As I understand this is the final sitting day before the Christmas recess, I extend seasonal greetings to all Members of the House and all members of the staff of the House. The past year has been an extremely busy and productive one for the Seanad. I thank the Leader of the House, the Deputy Leader, the Government Whip, the Leaders and Whips of the other groups and all Senators for their assistance and co-operation during the year. I especially thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach, Senator Cosgrave.
The construction works carried out during the year in proximity to the Seanad Chamber resulted in some discomfort and inconvenience for Members and staff. I thank everyone for their understanding in this matter. I pay a special tribute to the Clerk and Clerk Assistant of the Seanad whose hard work, devotion to duty and helpfulness we sometimes take for granted. I know that the friendly and accommodating attitude which obtains at all times in the Seanad office is appreciated by all Members.
I wish everyone a relaxed and peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy, prosperous and election free new year.
I have notice from Senator Cosgrave that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Public Enterprise to take immediate action in the interests of safety to provide extra carriages for the DART service which is at present dangerously overcrowded.
I have also received notice from Senator Ross of the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Public Enterprise to recognise in a material way the under-funding of the Aer Lingus pension fund over a period of years and to take action to bring Aer Lingus pensions up to the level enjoyed by pensioners of other semi-State bodies.
I regard the matters raised by the Senators as suitable for discussion on the Adjournment and they will be taken at the conclusion of business.