Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I thank all members for their contributions. It says a great deal about the potential of a committee when we have two former Ministers and two Deputies who are Chairs of other committees among our number. We will have some lively debates and discussions, which I have no doubt will be carried out at all times in a professional and courteous manner. The seriousness of the issues at hand will be reflected in our deliberations.

I will move to the nominations for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. As members are aware, a committee may choose to elect a Leas-Chathaoirleach to perform the duties and exercise the authority of the Cathaoirleach in his or her absence.

I propose that the committee proceed to elect a Leas-Chathaoirleach. I propose that we invite the secretariat to request nominations for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. Members may consult one another and send nominations to the clerk by 3 p.m. this Friday, 23 May. I propose that we proceed, with the agreement of the committee, to elect a Leas-Chathaoirleach at our next meeting on 27 May. An bhfuil sé sin aontaithe? Is that agreed? Agreed.

With the agreement of members, we will now go into private session to deal with some housekeeping matters. Is that agreed? Agreed.