WATCH: Senator David Norris makes powerful final speech to the Seanad before retirement

Independent Senator David Norris has officially resigned from the Seanad, bringing to a close 36 years of membership of the upper house of Dáil Éireann.

First elected in 1987 as a senator for Trinity College, Mr Norris campaigned to abolish Ireland’s anti-homosexuality laws in the 1980s and pushed for progress on LGBT rights.

He has been elected to the Seanad for nine consecutive terms, making him Ireland's longest serving senator and giving him the record for the longest continuous period of service in the upper house of the Oireachtas.

In his final speech in the Seanad chamber on Monday, January 22, Mr Norris used his time to call for peace in Palestine, and criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

"Man’s inhumanity to man is our greatest shame and I have to say also that it goes completely against the Jewish ethic which is L’Chaim – to life," he stated.

Mr Norris also thanked his parliamentary assistant Miriam Smith, his long-serving election agent Brian Murray, the graduates who voted for him over the years, and his fellow colleagues in the Seanad.

Many Irish political figures have spoken in appreciation of the now-former Senator Norris, including Cathaoirleach of the Seanad Jerry Buttimer, who said Mr Norris had left a huge legacy during his 36 years in the house.

"My life and that of the LGBTQ community is all the better because of your bravery courage and determination," he said.

Fianna Fáil Senator and Spokesperson on Higher Education Malcolm Byrne stated that Mr Norris has made an outstanding contribution to Irish public life in so many ways, saying he will be "most associated with the campaign for LGBT rights."

President Michael D. Higgins sent a letter to Mr Norris, describing him as "a champion of equality, diversity that will continue to inspire future generations", who had an "illustrious career" and "a courage beyond the ordinary".

Mr Norris announced his retirement in November, telling the Trinity News that he intends to move to Cyprus to enjoy some sunshine and that it was time to pass the "baton to the next generation".