Standing Order 88(2) provides that as soon as may be following the election of Chairman, every committee will elect one of its members to be Vice Chairman. Is it agreed that the committee shall elect a Vice Chairman at today's meeting? Agreed.
Election of Vice Chairman.
I propose Deputy Seán Connick
Deputy Seán Connick has forwarded his apologies for being unable to attend today's meetings. As there are no other nominations I deem Deputy Connick to be elected Vice Chairman. I congratulate him and look forward to working with him.
I thank the committee for electing me. It is a great honour to be elected as Chairman of this new and very important committee. I thank Senators Burke and Coghlan for their nomination. I look forward to working with the committee in a genuine spirit of partnership and co-operation. I am confident that we will bring our combined skills and enthusiasm to bear to make this a highly productive committee that discharges its functions in an efficient and enlightened way.
I also welcome the members of the committee, particularly the newly elected Members of the Dáil and Seanad. I will endeavour to be as fair and as impartial as I can to all members of this committee. I strongly believe that a united approach where all members can contribute and feel their efforts are worthwhile will give the best results.
I congratulate Deputy Perry on his election as Chairman of this very important committee. Given the developments in Europe, this committee will play a very important role in regard to European scrutiny to ensure the public is aware of what is going through the European Parliament. Given the Chairman's vast experience, he will be an excellent Chairman. I congratulate Deputy Connick on his election as Vice Chairman. I am sure he will be a very able Vice Chairman.
I thank Senator Leyden for his comments.
The joint committee went into private session at 12.08 p.m. and adjourned at 12.30 p.m. until 12 noon on Tuesday, 13 November 2007.