Seán Barrett TD Elected Ceann Comhairle of 31st Dáil

Deputy Barrett will be responsible for presiding impartially and with authority over the business and proceedings of Dáil Éireann.

Speaking on his election, Deputy Barrett said:
“I am hugely honoured and greatly humbled that my fellow parliamentarians have chosen to select me for this hugely distinguished position. Ceann Comhairligh have had a long tradition of presiding over the proceedings of the Oireachtas in an objective and independent manner by giving due respect to all sides of the House.

It is my intention to continue this proud convention. Members from all parties and none can be assured that their entitlements will be upheld during my tenure.

I also look forward to playing my role in the reform of the way our parliament works.
I believe we need a modern parliament for a modern age and I will do all I can to facilitate any changes that Members would like to implement. I strongly feel that we need to make ours a parliament which is relevant, fit for purpose and effective in order to deal with the trials we face as a nation.

I would also like to extend my best wishes to every member of the House and hope this 31st session of Dail Eireann will be remembered as one where open and constructive debate took place in a progressive and modernising setting.”

In his acceptance speech as Ceann Comhairle, Deputy Barrett said
 “Reform was one of the catchphrases of the general election campaign. As Ceann Comhairle I am required to leave political and procedural reform to you, the deputies, but I will be proactive in areas where the Ceann Comhairle can contribute. However, I am convinced that some simple changes to our procedures can make the working of the Dáil much more dynamic by encouraging participation by the ordinary backbenchers who are the backbone of the Dáil

He concluded:
“When I think of the momentous challenges facing this country and thus this 31st Dáil, I think of a few simple words of hope from a past visitor to this Chamber. When faced with his daunting task of rebuilding a nation, Nelson Mandela said - ‘It always seems impossible, until it is done.’”

ENDS

Daniel English
Oireachtas Communications Office
01 618 4484
087 6944926
Role and Function of CC
The Ceann Comhairle is the sole judge of order and has a range of powers and functions namely; calls on members to speak and all speeches must be addressed to the Chair; puts such questions to the House as are required, supervises Divisions and declares the results; has authority to suppress disorder, to enforce prompt obedience to rulings and may order Members to withdraw from the House or name them for suspension by the House itself for a period; in the case of great disorder can suspend or adjourn the House.
In relation to the general business of Dáil Éireann, the Ceann Comhairle has a variety of duties. Each sitting of the House is governed by an Order Paper which is prepared under his direction. Motions, amendments and Parliamentary Questions are examined individually to ensure that they comply with Standing Orders and precedents. The Ceann Comhairle also has discretion to shorten the formal notice required for motions and amendments.

Political Record of CC
24th Dáil - Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach and Government Chief Whip
Minister of State at the Department of Defence [14 December 1982 to 13 February 1986] resigned
Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach and Minister of State at the Department of Education [13 February 1986 to 10 March 1987]
27th Dáil - Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach and Government Chief Whip [15 December 1994 to 23 May 1995]
Minister of State at the Department of Defence [15 December 1994 to 23 May 1995]
Minister for Defence and Minister for the Marine [23 May 1995 to 26 June 1997
Chairman of Joint Oireachtas Committee on Climate Change and Energy Security in 30th Dáil.