Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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Apologies have been received from Senator Mary Seery Kearney. This is my first public meeting as Cathaoirleach to the committee. I very much look forward to working closely with the members of the committee and the Minister in the next couple of months and I look forward to proactive engagement.

Unfortunately, I am starting proceedings this afternoon on a very sad note by acknowledging the passing of Niall Kieran, the clerical officer who worked with this committee.

Niall sadly passed away while on summer holiday, following a cycling accident, in France. He was a passionate cyclist. I know that members here were all deeply saddened to hear of Niall's unexpected passing. On my behalf and that of the members of this committee, I extend our sincere sympathies to Niall's parents, his brother and sister, his extended family and all his colleagues and friends in Leinster House. I know that the Minister sent his condolences to the secretariat following Niall's passing.