As so many TDs took up their seats for the first time in the 33rd Dáil on Thursday, we took a step back in time.

All the way to 1981 - when a certain Ivan Yates took his seat in the chamber for very the first time.

Representing Wexford for Fine Gael, the newbie was asked by reporters how he felt.

The then-youngest member in Leinster House said: "Oh a very exciting time, first day in the Dáil - delighted with the result of the election and an honour and privilege to be here."

Then-Agriculture Minister Ivan Yates in London in January 1995 | Image: PA Archive/PA Images

Asked if he felt like it was his first day of school, the future Hard Shoulder presenter said: "There are similarities between that and boarding school, yes, but it's more exciting and more important I think".

He added: "I look forward to a change of government, and I think the wind is blowing our way".

He would be re-elected six more times - as well as serve as Agriculture Minister between 1994 and 1997.

Do you think he sounds a bit different?

As so many TDs take up their seats for the first time, here's a clip of @IvanYatesNT on his first day in Leinster House in 1981. Sound a bit different? pic.twitter.com/0pRqCSqboY

— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) February 20, 2020