Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Ba mhaith liom an Teachta Seán Ó Bairéid a ainmniú chun a bheith ina Cheann Comhairle ar an 31ú Dáil.

I wish to propose Deputy Seán Barrett for the position of Ceann Comhairle of the 31st Dáil. Deputy Barrett has long experience in national politics. He is a deeply respected individual who has worked untiringly towards keeping the status of and respectability relating to politics at a high level. Of all the Members of the Dáil he has an intimate and deep understanding of the mechanics of how the House works. More importantly, he has a deep and abiding commitment to changing the relevant regulations in order to make the Dáil more effective, transparent and accountable.

As a public representative of many years service - who has been Chief Whip in Government and in Opposition, who has been a Minister and who has been our party's spokesperson in a number of areas - Deputy Barrett will, as Chair of the 31st Dáil, uphold the reputation established by many of his illustrious predecessors. I can testify to the fact that he will be fair, objective and accountable and will see to it that the House does its business efficiently and effectively on behalf of the people who elected its Members. I commend the nomination of the Deputy for the position of Ceann Comhairle to the House.

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