Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I assure the House I will arrange time on an appropriate day to pay tribute to the late, great Garret FitzGerald, who was a wonderful man. I assure Members we will do that in early course.

As the House will be aware, the Government has committed itself, as the Cathaoirleach stated, to a referendum on whether the Seanad should continue or not. The referendum will take place within two years and the people of Ireland will decide on the merits of the proposal. Today is not a day, however, to dwell on this subject and I am sure Members will have ample opportunity to express their views on this matter at another time.

I welcome all new Members to the House. It is a wonderful honour for all of them and for their families to be elected and appointed to this House. Members such as I who were re-elected are outnumbered by new Members but I am sure we will all work together in the interests of the country and to maintain the best traditions of this House through good debate and proper scrutiny of legislation.

I formally move that Senator Paddy Burke be elected as Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann. Senator Burke has held the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach of this House since 2002. He was first elected to the House in 1992. He has conducted proceedings in the House in an even-handed, calm and fair manner at all times - qualities which are vital for the role of Cathaoirleach. His experience will be crucial in charting the Seanad on a proper course and in keeping an even keel should we encounter any stormy waters.

Senator Paddy Burke entered public life in 1979 when he became a member of Mayo County Council. He played Gaelic football at under-21 and senior levels for his county. If elected today, Senator Burke will carry out his duties in an exemplary manner by upholding the traditions and rules of this House. He is respected by all sides of the House. I believe him to be a fitting person to hold the position of Cathaoirleach. I formally propose the name of Senator Paddy Burke.