I have come this morning from what I would describe as an extremely happy county.

Did the Senator bring Liam with him?

It has been a long weekend.

I wish every county could experience what those of us in County Clare have experienced in the past 48 hours. It is incredible to see so many happy, proud people. Senators will agree that the spectacle last Saturday, and two weeks ago, was an incredible example of everything that is good about the game of hurling.

Hear, hear.

They will agree also that the individuals from County Clare, and Cork, who performed on Saturday did themselves, their families, their counties and their country proud. Davy Fitzgerald is an incredible person. He is an incredible leader-----

He would make a great Deputy.

-----and his team is incredible as well.

We need to have a debate here on the qualities and the financing of sport.

It might be a bit soon for the Cathaoirleach to allow that happen.

We need to re-evaluate our priorities and to ensure that sport, which brings so much joy to so many families throughout this country, is properly invested in by this Government. Investing in sport is investing in a healthy lifestyle and in a healthy future for our country. If what I have experienced in the past 48 hours is anything to go by and the confidence in Clare, if we are lucky enough to be here this time next year I will be standing up again to congratulate the Clare team on retaining the McCarthy Cup.

And the Dubs too.