In accordance with Standing Order 10 I now call on the Clerk of the Seanad.
Resignation of Cathaoirleach.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
Clerk of Seanad
Faoi Bhuan-Ordú 10 de na Buan-Orduithe i dtaobh Gnó Phoiblí, tá orm a chur in iúl don Seanad go bhfuair mé an litir seo a leanas:
Pursuant to Standing Order 10 of the Standing Orders relative to Public Business I have to report to the Seanad that I have received the following letter:
22 January 1992.
Dear Ms. Lane,
It is with profound regret that I find it necessary to ask you to notify Seanad Éireann of my resignation from the Office of Cathaoirleach. I find it necessary to do this to preserve the Office of the Cathaoirleach and to preserve the integrity of the House from any impact resulting from last night's disclosures.
It remains my duty to say a special thanks to all Members of the House for their courtesy, co-operation and understanding during the period I held the Office of Cathaoirleach.
I wish to express my sincere appreciation to my county colleague and Leas-Chathaoirleach, Senator Liam Naughten, likewise, the Leader of the House, Senator Seán Fallon, and the group leaders — Senator Maurice Manning, Senator Joe O'Toole, Senator Pat Upton and Senator John Dardis, together with the Party Whips. To the panel of temporary Chairmen I also express my gratitude.
To the Political Correspondents in the Seanad I wish to convey a sincere thank you.
I would like to put a special tribute on the record to yourself, as Clerk of the Seanad, for your invaluable advice and guidance on so many matters, and through you to the Clerk Assistant who on so many occasions gave similar assistance. Equally, to the other members of the office staff my sincere gratitude and appreciation.
To my colleagues on the Committee of Procedure and Privileges, please continue with the Reform Programme Recommendations as it can only contribute to the enhancement and public awareness of this House that all of us respect.
I truly enjoyed the experience, honour and distinction of being the Cathaoirleach of this most prestigious House.
Yours sincerely,
(Signed) Seán Doherty.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
In accordance with Standing Order 10 it is now necessary that an Order be made fixing a date for the election of Cathaoirleach.