Erin McGreehan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I congratulate the Cathaoirleach on his election. He is a very strong and true republican, just like myself. I come from a long tradition of true Irish republicanism. As that republican, I am incredibly proud to stand here today as a worthy Taoiseach's nominee, not just a party member, given some Senators want to put down these nominees. We are hard-working people. We are here with a voice and it is a voice worth listening to.

I am here to serve my country, my county and my people. The honour of being elected to this House has not gone past me. I was a little girl called Erin who was convinced as a child that she was called after the Oireachtas Éireann - Dáil Éireann - and that she was meant to be here, so maybe my parents knew more than I did. I was that little girl who stayed up late at night and who snuck into the kitchen to watch “Oireachtas Report”, absolutely in awe of the speakers in both Houses. I listened to the debates completely in awe of the history, of how our forefathers fought for this country and of what they give us. They give us two proud Houses and I am part of that. I am so privileged to stand here with all others as an equal Member, not just a party Member. I am here to represent everyone. I take umbrage at the suggestion we are not all-inclusive.

I am from the Border region. I am from the side of a mountain. I know what it is like to live in rural Ireland. I went to college in Galway and I know what it is like to live in a rural city. I know what it is like to be a mother with a young family. I know what it is like to struggle with bills and to live with parents for a couple of years when trying to afford a house. These are all important things. I am so proud to be here with that voice today.

I look forward to working with the Cathaoirleach. I congratulate the Leader of the House, Senator Regina Doherty, and the leader of the Fianna Fáil group, Senator Lisa Chambers.