Mary Wallace (Meath, Fianna Fail)

I join other speakers in congratulating both new Deputies but in particular Deputy McEntee from County Meath. My family and his have known each other for a long time. Deputy McEntee's father, Mr. Tony McEntee, welcomed me to the County Meath Committee of Agriculture many years ago when I was the first woman member of that committee and its youngest chairperson. He was very helpful to me at that time. Deputy McEntee will find support here among his fellow Deputies from County Meath. As the Meath team, we will work hard together to deliver for our constituents. I welcome him to the House. It is a great day for him and for his family and supporters generally. I congratulate him and wish him every happiness.

I also congratulate Deputy Catherine Murphy whom I have also known for a long time. It is good to see another woman joining the few females in Leinster House. I welcome her and wish her success in representing Kildare North.

As other Deputies from Meath have pointed out, it is an important day for us to be joined by a new colleague. I wish him every success.

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