Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

We have a procedural item to deal with - the election of the Leas-Chathaoirleach. I remind members that the committee may choose to elect a Leas-Chathaoirleach who can perform the duties and exercise the authority of the Cathaoirleach in his or her absence. It was agreed at our previous meeting that nominations for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration would be sent by email to the clerk by 3 p.m. on Friday, 23 May. The clerk has advised me that there was one nomination proposing Deputy Paula Butterly as Leas-Chathaoirleach. In the absence of any other nomination, is it agreed that Deputy Butterly is elected? Agreed. Déanaim comhghairdeas leis an Teachta Butterly. I invite her to make some remarks, if she wishes.

Paula Butterly (Louth, Fine Gael)

I thank the Chair. I had not anticipated saying anything.

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I put you on the spot.

Paula Butterly (Louth, Fine Gael)

I am absolutely honoured and thankful to everybody to be on this committee. It is one of the most important committees within Leinster House and the Oireachtas. I look forward to working collaboratively with everybody and bringing forward all the different legislation over the next term, which will be vital.

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

It is a significant achievement for a first-time TD to be elected Leas-Chathaoirleach of a very important committee, as she said, which I also believe very strongly, with a lot of work. I will do everything in my power to ensure that she is kept incredibly busy. Would any other members like to make a comment?

Catherine Callaghan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I congratulate my colleague, Deputy Paula Butterly. She is a person of outstanding character and has a very strong work ethic. She will work very well in collaboration with the secretariat and the Cathaoirleach freisin. I wish her all the best of luck.

Tom Brabazon (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)

I echo Deputy Butterly's comment about the importance of the committee. I also wish her well. I look forward to working with everybody on the committee.

Cathal Byrne (Fine Gael)

On behalf of Senator Kelleher, who I am filling in for, I congratulate Deputy Butterly. I have known her since she first became a member of Louth County Council. With her professional background as a barrister, she will bring a lot of expertise to the role of Leas-Chathaoirleach. She is somebody who will work in collaboration with all the members and the Chair.

Anne Rabbitte (Fianna Fail)

I wish Deputy Butterly the very best of luck in the role. I look forward to working with her and the Cathaoirleach for the term of this Dáil. I agree with her that this is a very important committee. I do not come from a legal background or anything like that, but I come from that social justice piece, which also has a role to play at this committee. I wish the Deputy all the very best and look forward to working with her.

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

As no other members are indicating, we will go into private session to deal with some housekeeping matters.