Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I strongly believe in the role of the Upper House. It would be a mistake to reduce the oversight this House provides and to concentrate more power in the hands of a few. We have an important democratic role to play in this great country.

I shall return to the task at hand and to my colleague, Senator Mark Daly, who I am delighted and privileged to propose for the position of Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann. As a Kerry man, Senator Daly and I will never be on the same side in Croke Park in December this year, but we are great colleagues and great friends. I have known Mark since before my election as a councillor back in 2014. Mark was first elected in 2007 and has been re-elected successfully on four occasions to this great House. I have no doubt that Mark will bring the same passion and work ethic to the House as Cathaoirleach that he brought to that Seanad seat. Mark has always been truly Fianna Fáil. He established the first ever Ógra Fianna Fáil in Kenmare at the age of 17. He was always eager and interested in politics. Mark formed a long-lasting friendship and apprenticeship with Brian Crowley, former MEP.

On my travels during this Seanad campaign I was quite often asked "You are not on Mark Daly's panel are you?" I was very glad to say "No, I am not". Mark is very well known for his ability on the Seanad campaign and has topped the poll on many occasions, including on his first outing in a Seanad election and much to everyone's surprise. Even he would say it was to his own surprise also. Mark continued in that stead in every election since. Senator Daly believes in this House, the work that it does and the work it can do. Even in the last couple of months Mark has been a fount of knowledge and assistance to me and to other new Senators in taking up our roles.

I shall take this opportunity to touch on some of the issues close to Mark's heart and the work he has done in his role as a Senator over the years. Members will be aware that Mark brought the Irish Sign Language Act through the House, which was signed into law by President Higgins in the eve of 2017. It was a huge achievement to bring the legislation through and the Irish Deaf Society, which has nominated Mark, is very grateful for that. Mark also championed organ donation legislation. He believed in that work and saw it to the end. We are all very much aware of Mark's admiration for the symbols of the State and his work with the Irish flag, bringing the knowledge of its origins to second level schools across the country. Mark is very fond of family and is grateful for their support. I congratulate his family, some of whom are with him here today. Mark's father, Sean, and his brother, Conor, are in the Chamber to watch Mark come forward. I also acknowledge the support of Mark's mother Eileen, his brother, John, and sister, Elaine, and his beloved nine nieces and nephews for whom he cares greatly.

As a friend and colleague I have known Mark for a number of years. I have no doubt that as Cathaoirleach of this House Senator Mark Daly will be objective and impartial and that he will bring to the role a dignity and work ethic we can all be very proud of. I look forward to working with him as a Member of this House in that prestigious and important role.

I thank Senator Norris for the opportunity to make this proposal. I nominate Senator Mark Daly for the position of Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann.