Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach. If it is okay, I will say a few words of thanks before we move on with the proceedings. I thank the Tánaiste and my colleagues for placing their faith in me. I also thank my colleagues who voted for me here today, as well as those who did not. I have always had a fair work ethic and tried to work with people right across each and every grouping. I give a commitment that my door will always be open. I look forward to working with all Senators in a fair and collegial manner.

I thank the Irish Grain and Feed Association, as it was my nominating body. I also thank TDs, councillors and Senators right across the political spectrum who voted for me and got me where I am today.

I congratulate Senator Flynn on putting her name forward here today. I call her a friend. We have often had conversations. If she had been successful, she would be a fantastic Leas-Chathaoirleach. I did not come here today and take anything for granted. I have always had that philosophy. One always goes out and looks for votes and support.

I acknowledge the father of the House, Senator Wilson. He has always been very encouraging of me. I also acknowledge my proposer, Senator Kyne, the Leader, and my seconder, Senator O'Reilly, a former Leas-Chathaoirleach himself. I thank them for their very kind words. I did not realise it was me they were speaking about when they proposed me.

I look forward to working with the Cathaoirleach and with Martin and his team at the top table, all those in the Seanad Office, and the ushers and staff within the House. My job is to make sure that everybody is treated fairly and they all receive the same treatment, and that everybody has the right to express themselves as well.

My own family is watching at home online: my mother Helen, my aunt and uncle, my brothers, Stephen and Robert, and also my extended family. I would not be here without their help and support. I am very privileged that I am the third female to serve in the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. I follow in the footsteps of Evelyn Owens, a Labour Party trade unionist from Dublin who served from 1973 to 1977 and also in the footsteps of Tras Honan, a fellow Munster person from Tipperary who served from 1983 to 1987. She also came from a business background.

I served as Mayor of Limerick in 2010. I was the fourth woman to serve in that office in Limerick in 814 years. Not many people are honoured to serve in the position that I have been elected to fill today. I look forward to working with all Members in the future - over the next five years. I also follow in the footsteps of a neighbour of mine - Thomas Westropp Bennett, a former Senator, Leas-Chathaoirleach and Cathaoirleach. His daughter-in-law, Catherine, who is looking in today, is also a neighbour of mine. They were from Limerick. I look forward to serving everybody right across the House. I thank all for the privilege and honour they have bestowed on me today.