Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have taken the oath and now take the opportunity to say how extremely grateful I am to the House for electing me as Leas-Cheann Comhairle of this, the Thirty-second Dáil. It is an honour and privilege to have been elected to this prestigious position. I pay tribute to those who contested this position, Deputies Seán Crowe, Bernard Durkan and Mattie McGrath, any of whom would have filled the role to the highest standards and with the professionalism expected of a Leas-Cheann Comhairle.

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I want to briefly reaffirm my commitment yesterday to fulfil my duties as Leas-Cheann Comhairle in a fair, balanced, impartial and understanding manner, and uphold the rights and privileges of you, the Members of this House. I of course want to pay tribute to my immediate predecessor, the Leas-Cheann Comhairle of the Thirty-first Dáil, Michael Kitt, and wish him well in his retirement.

Geallaim do na Teachtaí go léir - agus tá mé dáiríre faoi seo - go ndéanfaidh mé mo dhícheall chun cothrom na féinne a thabhairt dóibh.

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