Nessa Cosgrove (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am absolutely thrilled to second the nomination of Seanadóir Eileen Flynn. I have known Eileen for a number of years through her work in promoting equality. She has always spoken up for the underdog. Eileen has proven herself in fighting against the odds. She has proven herself to be a brave and courageous woman. She has come from a disadvantaged background and has experienced racism and discrimination all her life. She is standing in the Seanad, where she has made significant contributions. As someone who was recently elected and who was an outsider looking in, Eileen reflects balance in the House. It is important that there be balance with the Opposition with regard to the Cathaoirleach and Leas-Chathaoirleach roles. Eileen has raised issues here that had never been raised previously, including the high suicide rate among the Traveller community. It is very important that we have representation of everyone in the House. It is a highly revered House and it is extremely important that it is a true reflection of society. Politics should reflect society and it is very important that senior roles in the Seanad also reflect society.