Rory Kiely (Fianna Fail)

Is mór an onóir dom gur toghadh mé inniu mar Chathaoirleach ar Sheanad Éireann agus tá mé fiorbhuíoch díbh uilig. It is a great honour and privilege to have been elected as Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann. Elections are a healthy sign of democracy. There are many factors which have culminated in my election today and many to whom I owe my gratitude. I wish to thank the Munster Agricultural Society Company Limited for its loyalty in nominating me as its candidate on the Agricultural Panel in each election since 1977; the electorate who returned me to the Seanad on eight occasions – unfortunately, there was a slight mishap in April 1982; the Fianna Fáil group of Senators for nominating me as their candidate for the office of Cathaoirleach and, finally, the Members of the House for electing me. I also thank my proposer, the Leader of the House, Senator O'Rourke, and seconder, the Deputy Leader of the House, Senator Dardis, for their kind remarks.

On a more personal note, each of my fellow politicians is aware of the huge burden placed on the home and family life when one is involved in politics. I have spent many years in politics and the honour bestowed on me today could not have come without the continued and unselfish support and encouragement of my wife, Eileen, and our family. To each of them I say, "Thank you". I am delighted that they sit in the Visitors Gallery today to be part of this wonderful occasion.

Since my election in 1977 I have served under nine Cathaoirligh. Each incumbent had his or her particular style. However, there is a tradition in the Seanad of co-operation rather than confrontation which has served the Seanad well. I intend to continue that tradition.

There are those on whom the mantle of power rests lightly and my predecessor, Brian Mullooly, is such a person. Much has been said in recognition of Brian's unique character and his adherence to the highest standards of justice and impartiality. I also acknowledge the dignity and respect brought to the House in his years as a Senator, Government Whip, Leas-Chathaoirleach and, in particular, his five years as Cathaoirleach. It is my fervent ambition to maintain the high standards of cothrom na féinne and humour that have been the hallmark of recent years.

In my time in Seanad Éireann I have made many friends. It is somewhat nostalgic to notice the absence of the many familiar faces with whom I had the honour to serve since 1977, but these are times of change in the political world and, as each dawn brings a new day, so too this Seanad brings new faces and opportunities. It is my wish that together we, the Members of the 22nd Seanad, will operate in unison to maintain the status of the House and fulfil its constitutional role as part of the Oireachtas.

There has been much discussion, including today, about the expansion of the role of the Seanad and the adoption of new procedures that would enable the House to focus on other matters in addition to the legislative programme. As Cathaoirleach, I will gladly subscribe to any change that would enhance the status of Seanad Éireann and allow all Members to make meaningful contributions to the democratic life of the State. Ó mo chroí amach, go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir.