Regina Doherty (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I move: "That Senator Joe O'Reilly be elected Leas-Chathaoirleach."

I am privileged to stand here today and nominate Senator Joe O'Reilly because he is one of my oldest friends, not in age but in terms of the length of time we have been friends, in my short political life. He is a titan not only of this House but of the Dáil and Cavan County Council. I propose him for the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann.

The Senator entered politics when he was elected to Cavan County Council in 1985 when I was only a young one. Since then, he has represented his county and neighbours numerous times in the Seanad, Dáil and at council level over the past 30 years. He is a familiar face on posters at almost every level of politics - local, national and European. Perhaps a run for the Áras might be in his future.

We all know the Senator as a great orator, intellect and a wise man. I will put the emotional and human nature of him. In 2006, before my very first election in 2007, I was nobody. Nobody had heard of me in my own county, let alone in my party. I was heavily pregnant with my fourth child and there was not a huge amount of support coming from quarters. I got a lovely letter and gift from Joe in the post. He did not know me, had never even met me before, so that is a testament to the kind of man he is, politically and personally. He is a gent and I give him my full support.

I know the House will face difficult and challenging times ahead. Tough decisions are going to have to be made and strong debates will be had. I know the roles of Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach will be regularly tested and there is a real need for respected and experienced voices in the Chair for these debates. I know that Senator Mark Daly and, please God, Senator Joe O'Reilly will provide the most impartial and fair rulings for the running of this House in the future. I nominate the Senator.