Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Daly for proposing me, and Senator Byrne for seconding the nomination. Under Standing Order 81(2)(a) I need to make the following declaration:

I do solemnly declare that I will duly and faithfully and to the best of my knowledge and ability execute the office of Chairperson of the Seanad Select Committee on Scrutiny of Draft EU-related Statutory Instruments without fear or favour, apply the rules as laid down by the House in an impartial and fair manner, maintain order and uphold the rights and privileges of members in accordance with the Constitution and Standing Orders.

I appreciate the opportunity to make some opening remarks. I again thank Senators Daly and Byrne for proposing me, and the rest of my colleagues on the committee for unanimously supporting my election to this prestigious position of Chair. It is an incredible honour to chair any committee in this House, but particularly a select committee of the Seanad. It has been recommended for many years that the Seanad carry out a more detailed role when it comes to scrutinising European directives, statutory instruments and so on. I am delighted that this committee has been formed. I pay enormous tribute to the Leas-Chathaoirleach and former Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann for his tireless campaigning to ensure this committee got off the ground. It is fair to say that the committee would not be in place but for the tenacity, determination and focused drive of Senator Mark Daly. I believe he deserves enormous credit because this is a key recommendation of Seanad reform, to make the Seanad more relevant to the lives of the people it serves. I commend Senator Daly on his work in that area.

Standing Orders permit us to elect a Vice-Chair. It is the first thing we can do after the election of the Chair. I ask for a proposer for the position of Vice-Chair.