Tribute to Noel Murphy
Dail Éireann — 2023-03-30
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Seán Ó Fearghaíl (CC), Kildare South

Before proceeding to the next business, I draw Members' attention to the fact that today we bid farewell to a long-standing member of staff in the Houses of the Oireachtas, namely, our superintendent, Noel Murphy, who is quite properly in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery. Noel joined the public service in 1978 and came to us in Leinster House in 1999.
Many Members will know him very well for his work in the committees. He has been a permanent feature around the Houses for 24 years. I know all Members would like to thank him for his incredible work ethic and for his efficiency, dedication, good humour and amiability at all times. We will miss him. I suspect the children of Members and staff who come in here at Christmas to meet Santa, however, will be raising a few eyebrows this Christmas when the new Santa persona is revealed. Do not be looking at me because-----

Micheál Martin (FF), Cork South-Central

I just was.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (CC), Kildare South

-----I might be the right shape, but I do not think I have the personality for it.

Micheál Martin (FF), Cork South-Central

Deputy Pringle could rise to it.

Thomas Pringle (IND), Donegal

I am aspiring to it.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (CC), Kildare South

On behalf of everybody here, I most sincerely wish Noel, his wife Fiona and their children Aoife, Daniel, Sophie and Caitlin all the best in Noel's retirement. I hope they make the most of his newfound freedom and that his retirement is long, healthy and happy.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (CC), Kildare South

I am also advised that a former loyal servant of the House, Mr. Ray Hesse, is here with us today as well. He is very welcome.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2023-03-30/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:51:45+00:00
Sitting date: 2023-03-30