Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

We have got off to a good start in that we are united in the nomination of Senator Moylan to the position of Cathaoirleach. I hope we will continue to work in this constructive manner. It bodes well for us if we do. On behalf of the Progressive Democrats and my colleague, Senator Cannon, it gives me great pleasure to jointly second the nomination of Senator Moylan to the position of Cathaoirleach.

Seanad reform is high on many Members' agenda. It is to be welcomed that there are so many new Members. The wise counsel of Senator Moylan, who is calm, collected, considered and always fair, will be very much required as Members chomp at the bit in their efforts to make this Chamber relevant. This is a point on which we are all united. Many people are not satisfied that the Seanad is relevant. I very much look forward to undertaking my work as a Senator and performing my duties correctly. The primary issue will be for us to make this Chamber relevant to the public. I echo Senator O'Toole's comments that this Chamber should be a natural forum for discussion of any topic being debated publicly.

Being a nominated Senator is something different in that one has a constituency of only one and, with this, comes a certain freedom as well as certain duties and expectations. Nominated Members are appointed for particular reasons, and I intend to exercise my duty with due caution, criticising and supporting where appropriate. There is no question of merely turning up to make up the numbers. Nominated Members have an important contribution to make and should not expect that all will necessarily be quiet on their side of the Chamber.

It is a great privilege to be here. Having come from Dáil Éireann, I look forward to the change the Seanad will present. An issue of which I will be particularly aware is the scrutiny of legislation. I look forward to this process as something different to that which pertains in the Dáil and I am eager to participate in the proud tradition of Seanad Éireann in this regard. I look forward to the next five years.