David Norris (Independent)

I am happy to support the nomination of my old colleague and friend, Senator Denis O'Donovan, as Leas-Chathaoirleach. He is a distinguished Member of the House and a well known solicitor in Bantry or somewhere in west County Cork. His legal knowledge and expertise have been made available to the House in a quiet and gentlemanly way. He was a member of the Joint Committee on the Constitution, to which I made submissions. While serving on the committee, he was always extraordinarily courteous and careful to listen to and balance all of the evidence presented. He never got into difficulties or rows, however contentious matters became and some contentious matters were raised by groups which were displeased with the direction the committee took.

As I stated in another forum today, I know well the phrase, "If you cannot stand the heat, get out of the kitchen". Senator O'Donovan will be well able to stand the heat, as I am. What I did not realise was that it was Celebrity Chef Kitchen and I was going to have filthy language, knives and plates thrown at me. I doubt if this will ever happen to Senator O'Donovan, given his charming manner.

Senator O'Donovan was also involved in the Abbeylara committee. That experience will prove useful, as I understand the Government intends to revisit the matter. We are very lucky to have such a distinguished Member being put forward for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. I look forward to what I am sure will be his uncontested election.

I completely agree with the Leader, Senator Cummins, that this too is an example of cross-party co-operation. I hope we will continue to go about our business in respect of this matter in a non-contentious way and will not become involved in the kind of ping pong in which we usually engage on Wednesday evenings. It would ill become me to be contentious on this happy occasion of electing a distinguished Member, who is a friend to everyone in the House, as Leas-Chathaoirleach.