I inform the committee that, pursuant to the resignation of Deputy Joanna Tuffy as committee Chairman, a vacancy exists for that position. In accordance with Standing Orders, I must ask for an order to be made by the committee for the date for the election of the Chairman, which can be today.
Election of Chairman
I propose we take the vote today.
A Member
I second that proposal.
May I have nominations for the position of Chairman, please?
I propose Deputy Joe McHugh.
A Member
I second that proposal.
Are there any other nominations? No. As there are no other nominations, I call on Deputy McHugh to take the Chair.
Deputy Joe McHugh took the Chair.
I thank the proposer and seconder and look forward to working with members of this committee. I commend Deputy Joanna Tuffy and wish her well in her new role on the Joint Committee on Education and Social Protection. I thank her for her work on the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. She certainly did things differently and brought meetings into Northern Ireland, something on which she must be commended. I know her predecessor, Deputy Dominic Hannigan, worked at that as well. I am open to whatever suggestions the committee has on how and where we hold meetings. Deputy Joanna Tuffy has set a good precedent. I also welcome Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick who replaces Deputy Alan Farrell.
I congratulate the Chairman on his election and thank the members and staff of the committee secretariat, including Emer Deane, Sinéad Quinn and George Antonescu, for the assistance they provided me during my period as Chairman. Much of the groundwork had been laid for me when I took over in the Chair. Working on this committee is highly enjoyable and there is great camaraderie between members. I look forward to continuing to play a part in its work and supporting the Chairman.