Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I have no objection to the character or qualities of Deputy Howlin. I am sure many Deputies would fulfil the duties of Leas-Cheann Comhairle with great distinction. I wanted to propose the name of Deputy Pádraic McCormack, a long-serving Member with a great understanding of the rules in local authority, Seanad and Dáil business. He is a fitting person to hold this office.

I do not mean to be disrespectful to any other Member but the way in which this has been dealt with by the Government bypasses the major party in Opposition. The Taoiseach nominated a Member for the position while at the same time saying the nomination should be drawn from the ranks of the Opposition. It has been a long time since this happened and in my view it amounts to contemptuous treatment of the Dáil.

In speaking to my objection to the process by which this has been done, I put forward the name of Deputy Pádraic McCormack.

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