Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)
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As a party colleague, I want to say how proud I am that Deputy Lahart has been chosen to take the position of Cathaoirleach. I have always found him to be collegiate and considerate in his approach to everything. That consideration will be important in the role that he now has. I look forward to working with other members of the committee, the clerk and the secretariat. The Chair has a fine all-female crew beside him. I have no doubt they will serve all of us well. Ireland's place and voice in the world are important. We have never seen so much conflict, not just on the edges of Europe but right across the world. We have a responsibility on our shoulders to take considered views and make considered statements, particularly regarding trade. We are not sure what we are facing because the narrative seems to change day by day, but there is no doubt that many businesses and companies, both those involved in foreign direct investment in Ireland and indeed others that depend on those businesses. We need to have a big focus on that area. I know the Cathaoirleach will play a large part in that.