The Irish Parliamentary (Former Members) Society has its first AGM in November. During the summer, the Taoiseach hosted a reception for members at Dublin Castle where outside guests included FG leader John Bruton and ministers Mary O'Rourke, Brian Cowen and Michael Woods. Above are acting committee members Ted Nealon, Vincent Brady, Nuala Fennell, Seamus Cullimore and Evelyn Owen, with Bertie Ahern and Celia Larkin.
The 210-strong society for former TDs, senators, MEPs, widows (there are no widowers), and staff of Leinster House numbers among its active members a former president, Paddy Hillery, and a former taoiseach, Garret FitzGerald. It has been involved in registering members, highlighting anomalies in pensions and organising social events. There are hopes to get an office in the newly renovated Oireachtas buildings. Charlie Haughey hasn't turned up yet but about 80 per cent of former Oireachtas members have joined.