MEP (Independent) for Munster since 1989, President of European Liberal Group

This Parliament's contribution? Examples - provided £300,000 for Clonmel during floods; helped Aughinish Alumina/Alcan to maintain exemption from high excise tax on heavy-duty fuel

Own proudest achievement? The first Irish person to be elected to leadership of a European political group . . . and defined for Parliament that the question for the Commission was accountability

Frustration? Travel to Strasbourg

Absences from sessions: 43

Motions for resolution: 55

Reports: five (plus two contributions) Questions: 22

Debates: 96

Teacher's note: Star performer with genuine Euro perspective if a mite over-serious. Clinched status by keeping his eye on the Commission ball and defining the agenda. Good committee worker, makes considered contributions on economic issues