Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (Dublin Bay North, Labour)
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It is an overwhelming mandate. There is no need to read out apologies. I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones or to switch them to flight mode. Mobile phones interfere with the sound system, make it difficult for parliamentary reporters to report the meeting and adversely affect television coverage and web streaming. For the information of members, a sound recording is being made of this meeting to assist in the production of minutes. The clerk will ensure it is deleted immediately upon the agreement of the minutes.

As members will be aware, Deputy Carroll MacNeill ceased to be a member of the committee and Leas-Chathaoirleach following her appointment as a Minister of State. On behalf of the committee, I thank her for her valuable contributions to this committee while she was a member and wish her every success in her new role. Her departure leaves a vacancy for the role of Leas-Chathaoirleach. Standing Order 104(3) provides that every committee shall elect one of its members to be Leas-Chathaoirleach. The clerk has received one nomination, for Senator Barry Ward, for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. Will someone second the nomination?

Lynn Ruane (Independent)
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I second Senator Ward's nomination.

Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (Dublin Bay North, Labour)
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As there are no other nominations, I declare Senator Ward elected Leas-Chathaoirleach. Is that agreed? Agreed. Is it agreed to go into private session to deal with some housekeeping matters? Agreed.