The first item of business on the agenda is election of chairman. I invite nominations for the position of chairman.
Election of Chairman.
Clerk to the Joint Committee
I propose Deputy Ardagh.
I second that. I am particularly pleased to do so because I represent Deputy Ardagh's area.
Is Deputy O'Connor his local Deputy?
I am.
Clerk to the Joint Committee
Are there any further nominations for the position of chairman? As there are no other nominations I deem Deputy Seán Ardagh to be elected as chairman and I invite him to take the chair.
DEPUTY SEÁN ARDAGH took the Chair.
I thank the committee for selecting me as chairman. As previous members will know, this is probably the busiest committee of the Oireachtas. It deals with a large number of representations from public bodies, legislation and other business. I hope every member of the committee will be able to play a full role in the proceedings. I will be fair and impartial and I will deal with every member of the committee as an individual member of the Oireachtas.