In the absence of the Cathaoirleach it is necessary under the Standing Orders that the House should elect a temporary Chairman. At the moment the panel of Senators who shall act as Cathaoirleach during the absence of the Cathaoirleach and the Leas-Chathaoirleach consists of Senators Counihan and Dowdall, in that order. I suggest to the House that they appoint Senator Counihan to act as temporary Chairman.
The House agreed, and Senator Counihan took the Chair accordingly.