Cléireach na Dála:

In accordance with Standing Order 11(1)(d), I inform the House that Deputy Catherine Connolly is the successful candidate selected by the secret ballot for the position of Leas-Cheann Comhairle. I now put the question: "That Deputy Catherine Connolly, who is the successful candidate duly selected by secret ballot by the Members of Dáil Éireann, be elected and do now take the Chair of the Dáil as Leas-Cheann Comhairle."

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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I call on the newly elected Leas-Cheann Comhairle to come forward and make her official declarations.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle)
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On behalf of Members I congratulate Deputy Connolly on her historic election. She is the first woman to hold office as Ceann Comhairle or Leas-Cheann Comhairle in Dáil Éireann. It is a great occasion for her, her family and supporters and for all of us here in Dáil Éireann. I acknowledge also the distinguished and honourable campaign run by Deputy Fergus O'Dowd over recent days. Deputy Connolly will serve with distinction, and we have to acknowledge that so, too, would Deputy O'Dowd had he had the fortune of being elected.