An Leas-Chathaoirleach::

I thank my party leader, Deputy Enda Kenny, for nominating me to stand as a candidate for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. I thank my proposer, my colleague from Mayo, Senator Jim Higgins, and my seconder, Senator Finucane. I also thank all of the groupings in the House for their unanimous support for my appointment as Leas-Chathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann.

An Leas-Chathaoirleach::

I wish the Cathaoirleach well and congratulate him on his appointment. I have no doubt that he will do an excellent job and his long experience in this House and in the GAA will help him. I have no doubt that it helped him in recent months and it will certainly help him over his term of office. Senator Kiely will be an excellent Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann. In co-operation with the Cathaoirleach and the staff of the House, I hope to carry out my duties as Leas-Chathaoirleach in an impartial and fair manner on behalf of all Members of the House.