As I paid tribute to Deputy Andrews last week for the wonderful work he has done as Minister, I welcome the announcement of the appointment of Deputy Cowen as Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Martin as Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Woods as Minister for Education and Children and Deputy Fahey as Minister for the Marine, a full Minister for the west of Ireland.
I congratulate our new Minister of State with responsibility for tourism, Deputy Ryan, whose father was Leader of this House and whose grandfather was a Member of this House and a Minister in several Governments, and Deputy Hanafin who has been appointed Minister of State with responsibility for health and children. This is proud moment for the father of the House, Senator Hanafin. I am delighted for the Hanafin family. Deputy Hanafin has considerable talent and ability and it is fitting that one of her first responsibilities is to preside over amending legislation today in Seanad Éireann where her father is a distinguished Member.
The Order of Business is Nos. 1, 2 and 23, motion 14: No. 1 to be taken without debate; No. 2, Irish Nationality and Citizenship Bill, 1999 – Committee Stage to resume and all Stages thereafter by agreement; item 23, motion 14 to be taken from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and business to resume thereafter if not previously concluded.