Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Déanaim comhghairdeas le na Teachtaí Dála nua agus céad míle fáilte don Dáil. I congratulate the four Deputies who have been elected. It is a proud day for them for them and their families and I wish them well in this Dáil. Being elected through a by-election is a very special way to be elected. I was too and I remember that day back in June 2009. It is an interesting way to come to the Dáil rather than through a general election.

I mean absolutely no disrespect to the four gentlemen who have been elected but it means the gender balance is skewed again. We hope that the general election, when it comes, sees more capable women being elected. I wish the four new Deputies well and I hope they enjoy this day. This is a day to be enjoyed. The other days may not be quite so enjoyable.

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