Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Comhghairdeachas, a Chathaoirligh. I offer warm congratulations to the Cathaoirleach on his election. I will say a few words on behalf of the Civil Engagement Group. I also congratulate the new Leader of the House, Senator Jerry Buttimer.

We very much look forward to being part of the new dynamic. Both the Cathaoirleach and the Leader have expressed their interest in and commitment to new ways of doing politics and new ways of working together. We have an extraordinary opportunity with a very diverse group of Members. We will have ideas coming from all sides of the House, not simply the Independents. There are many exciting and new ideas from all of the political parties which will have a chance to flourish and bloom as we work together, moving past any complacency while working creatively and co-operating on the motions that have been proposed. We have already heard talk about motions today. We have heard, for example, ideas about legislation being really tested, debated and discussed on its merits. We have also heard about a commitment to human rights from all sides of the House. I hope that commitment to public duty, for example, on equality and human rights, will be part of the merits that we will, as a House, look for in legislation. Those of us in the Civil Engagement Group are very excited to be part of that process. We come from all civil society movements. This House can be a key point of engagement for civil society in the wider political and legislative process. We are, of course, also happy to support the proposals mentioned on Seanad reform, but the chance to debate them and the Bill we have put forward will come on another day.Again, I offer my congratulations. We look forward to working under the Cathaoirleach's stewardship.