Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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No apologies have been received. As is the case at the start of every meeting, I draw members' attention to one or two points. I advise members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit members to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, a member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask members participating via Microsoft Teams that, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House complex. I note all members are actually present.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory with regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such directive. This standard statement will be made at the start of every meeting.

The first business is nominations for Leas-Chathaoirleach. We agreed at our last meeting that members would submit nominations. Those nominations, in the order in which they were received, were Deputies William Aird and Martin Kenny. I now invite any other nominations for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach.

We will consider the nominations in the order in which they were received. I will put the question on the first nominee, that Deputy Willie Aird be elected Leas-Chathaoirleach. Is that agreed? Not agreed.

Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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I declare Deputy Aird duly elected as Leas-Chathaoirleach. I congratulate the newly elected Leas-Chathaoirleach and invite him to speak.

William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I thank everybody who voted for me and also those who did not. We are all here to work for the common good. Improving our country, if we can, is the most important thing. I thank everybody.

Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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I ask the Leas-Chathaoirleach to take the Chair.

William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I solemnly declare that I will duly and faithfully and to the best of my knowledge and ability execute the office of Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Committee on Agriculture and Food without fear or favour, apply the rules as laid down by the House in an impartial and fair manner, maintain order and uphold the rights and privileges of members in accordance with the Constitution and Standing Orders.

The committee will now go into private session.