Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

On behalf of all your Fine Gael colleagues, I congratulate you, a Chathaoirligh, on your election. It is a wonderful honour for you, your wife, mother and family. This is your day and it is not one for long speeches or for people to set out their political stall. I congratulate the Cathaoirleach most sincerely on his election to that high office.

I welcome the new Members, including Sinn Féin Members. I remind my friend and county colleague that Sinn Féin is now part of the political establishment, which I welcome. I look forward to many riveting contributions by all colleagues in the next few weeks and months. I wish everyone success in the future. This is a day for them and their families to enjoy. They should go and celebrate.