Eileen Flynn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Many of my speeches begin with, "I remember my mother used to say..." and I do remember her saying, "Never take on a job you can't handle." As Frances Black said, before I ever came here I dedicated my whole life to human rights, equality, diversity and justice. Today I am standing up and I cannot even ask for Members' votes because the Seanad does not work that way. The question to be put is if they support Senator Maria Byrne as Leas-Chathaoirleach and Government Members will say "Yes". Where is the justice in that? Where is the vote in that? It is not very democratic.

I will still read out the speech I prepared. I am seeking Senators' vote today to become the Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Seanad. Those of them who know me know my track record in speaking on diversity, inclusion and human rights. I put myself forward for this important role because I believe that this House represents the very best of us. The Seanad is the Chamber where important work can and does get done. We do not see the political divide much in this House when we are having our discussions on Bills and legislation, and we all do work together.As other Independent Senators said, even if people wanted me to be Leas-Chathaoirleach, it would not happen. I will continue, even though I am a little bit nervous.

We have an opportunity today to create another piece of history in this historic institution. I was proud to be the first member of the Traveller community to be nominated to the Seanad in 2020 by the Taoiseach, Deputy Micheál Martin. I am proud to again put my head above the water, stand on my own two feet and work. My God, I have worked so hard to be here this time around and to get in here on my own merits. Where there is hope and courage, I am hoping to be the first ever member of the Traveller community and the youngest Member to be Leas-Chathaoirleach.

I urge Members to vote with their hearts and their heads and to vote for change today. I know the vote will not be done in private but Members have the power and today we can create another piece of change in this House, as we did when we elected Mary Robinson and other great women.

I wish Senator Maria Byrne every success in the role and I look forward to working with her. I thank the Cathaoirleach for the opportunity because I was late putting my name forward. It is up to Members now. The ball is in their corner.