Clerk to the Seanad:

I have to inform the House that the Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach are absent from this sitting. It will be necessary, therefore, to elect a Member to perform the duties devolving upon and exercise the authority conferred upon the Cathaoirleach by the Standing Orders for the period of the absence of both. Can I have a proposal for the election of a Member?