Brian Brennan (Wicklow-Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish the Cathaoirleach the very best of luck. I am a little bit disappointed that I was placed on two committees running at the exact same time. I had to go next door for a vote but I did not want to leave during the Cathaoirleach's opening remarks. I feel that the issue could be looked at. I think there are four committees sitting at 12.30 p.m. today. I say this out of respect. People should not be coming into and going out of important meetings.

I am looking forward to working on this committee. It is historic in the global political and economic situation. It is also very interesting and I hope we can try to play some small role. Our focus previously was very much on America. The world is a big place. I lived in Asia for the past eight years and I hope to bring that experience here. I have been involved in the hospitality industry. I had six hotels, with more than 600 people working for me. It is very important to look after workers' rights but it is also important that we drive the industry on because, at the moment, it is stagnant. I hope we can come together to look after our workers but also to try to improve our trade. We need to get the balance right and learn from others' mistakes and the things they do right.