THE 2008-2009 Appropriation Bill was passed in the Senate last night.

Leader of Government Business, Senator Maxine McClean, who wrapped up debate, thanked Government Senator Darcy Boyce for his contribution to the preparation of the document.

"At the level of the individual, it represents and reflects the level of commitment that he has demonstrated from the first day when he was asked to serve," she said.

"He has brought to the exercise, sound knowledge, experience and understanding not only of things financial, but of things economic as well."

McClean also said that Boyce had demystified "some of the traditions of economics". (HLE)