Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As a new Deputy, I echo the sentiments expressed by Deputies Martin Heydon and Patrick O'Donovan in regard to Deputy Bernard J. Durkan being an excellent facilitator for new Deputies through his knowledge of the procedures of this House and helping new Deputies learning the mechanisms of the Oireachtas. He does this on a cross-party basis. We need a Leas-Cheann Comhairle who will be generous with his time and who will include everybody.

Deputy Bernard J. Durkan has a wealth of experience and we must all agree that he would bring his own individual style and personality to the House. He has an authoritative grasp of Standing Orders that would stand him in good stead in the Chair and ensure the smooth running of the House. He will be impartial and fair and I would like to see him as Leas-Cheann Comhairle.

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