In the normal course of events, it would fall to me to nominate for re-election the Deputy who has served as Ceann Comhairle, Deputy Fahy, for a long number of years. I am given to understand, however, that he does not propose to offer himself for re-election and I gather that, if his name were put forward, he would not accept election. In these circumstances, I feel that it is my duty to nominate a Ceann Comhairle, even in the peculiar circumstances in which we find ourselves in this House to-day. Accordingly, I submit to the judgment of the House the name of Deputy Patrick Hogan of Clare as Ceann Comhairle. Deputy Hogan has been a member of this House for a long number of years. He has acted for a considerable period as Leas-Cheann Comhairle. He has a thorough knowledge of all the procedure and practice of this House and is in every way well qualified for the position. During the time and term when he occupied the position of Leas-Cheann Comhairle, I think it must be said that he filled that position with dignity and outstanding fairness to all Parties. I submit the name of Deputy Patrick Hogan as one well qualified for the position of Ceann Comhairle.
Election of Ceann Comhairle.
I wish to second the proposal that Deputy Patrick Hogan of Clare be appointed as Ceann Comhairle of this House.
Aontuímíd leis sin. We agree.
, addressing the Dáil, said:—
A Chomh-Theachtaí, is mór liom an onóir seo mé do thogha mar Cheann Comhairle na Dála agus ba mhaith liom-sa a rá go bhfuil mé an-bhuioch díbh. Déanfaidh mé mo dhícheall chun na dualgaisí a bhaineann leis an bpost seo do dhéanamh i gceart agus obair na Dála do rialú mar is cheart chun cothrom na Féinne do thabhairt do gach Teachta. Tá súil agam go bhfaighea mé cabhair agus cúnamh ó gach Teachta chun an obair sin a dhéanamh i gceart. Ba mhaith liom a rá go bhfuil mé fíor-bhuíoch díbh go léir.
Fellow Deputies, it is a great honour to be elected unanimously to fill the post of Ceann Comhairle of this Dáil and I desire to express my appreciation of it. I will endeavour to carry out the duties appertaining to this office to the best of my ability and to direct the proceedings of the Dáil so that the fullest expression and fair play will be afforded to every Deputy. I hope to secure the help and cooperation of every Deputy in that effort. I desire again to thank you very sincerely and to say that I appreciate the honour.