Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will speak briefly on behalf of the Labour Party group. I congratulate Senator Norris on his status as father of the House. It has been my pleasure to serve with him as a Dublin University Senator for the past two terms and I look forward to serving with him this term. I echo Senator Norris's words about our former colleague, Dr. Sean Barrett, and I welcome Senator Lynn Ruane, our new colleague from Dublin University. I pay tribute to the former Leader of the House, Mr. Maurice Cummins, whom we miss, and the former Cathaoirleach, Senator Paddy Burke. I congratulate Senator Buttimer on his role as Leader of the House. I am sure we all look forward to working with him.

My party will support Senator O'Donovan for Cathaoirleach of the House. The Labour Party group is in opposition but, as Senator Buttimer stated, we do not believe in opposition for the sake of opposition. We will deal with issues on a case-by-case basis.

Senator O'Donovan will make an excellent Cathaoirleach. I served with him on the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality. He has been Leas-Chathaoirleach of this House and others have spoken about his experience and the expertise he will bring to chairing this House.

I would say, however, that in keeping with the spirit of new politics - there might be a good deal of cynicism about new politics - we should look to have a secret ballot for the election of Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach of this House. I hope we will see that come about in the future as a part of a Seanad reform proposal.

Finally, I welcome all of the new Senators and their family, relatives and friends who are in the Chamber. It is a day for celebration and congratulations. I look forward to working with all Senators and to genuinely bringing the new politics alive. It could be an exciting, dynamic and active Seanad and I look forward to working with all Senators in the years, I hope, ahead for the Twenty-fifth Seanad.