02/06/2011

Senator O’Donovan Elected Leas Chathaoirleach Of 24th Seanad

Senator Denis O’Donovan has been elected unopposed to the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach of the 24th Seanad.

Commenting on the election, Senator O’Donovan said: “It is a huge privilege for me to have been elected to the position of Leas-Chathaoirleach. I would like to acknowledge my fellow Senators for placing their confidence in me and I will endeavour to repay that faith.

“The 24th Seanad will be under greater scrutiny and examination than any of its predecessors as there is a possibility that this could be its final session. Therefore, it is now more important than ever, that this current Seanad demonstrates that it can contribute in a significant and meaningful way to the legislative process. We need to demonstrate that the Seanad can play a constructive role in helping to tackle some of the problems facing the country.”

Mr O’Donovan added: “I believe there has to be an admission that previous Seanads failed to properly address the issue of Seanad reform which has led to a degree of public cynicism towards the institution. In my role as Leas-Chathaoirleach, I will do all in my remit to advance the cause of Seanad reform and try to make an argument that the Seanad does have a consequential function in public discourse.

“I intend to work closely with the leader, deputy leaders and all Senators to ensure a cohesive working relationship exists and the 24th Seanad is a progressive forum which has a meaningful input.”

(BMcN/KMcA)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

26 May 2011
Senator Paddy Burke Elected Cathaoirleach To 24th Seanad
Senator Paddy Burke has been elected unopposed to the position of Cathaoirleach of the 24th Seanad. He assumes the position from outgoing Senator, Pat Moylan.
26 July 2013
Referendum To Be Held On Seanad Abolition
A referendum is to be held on October 4 over the proposal to abolish the Seanad. Sinn Féin has come out in favour of a yes vote in the debate.
28 April 2011
Appeal Launched Over Fatal Fire In Cork City
Gardai at Blackrock investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal fire at a house in Cork City have appealed to the public for their assistance. The fire started at a house in Nutley Avenue, Mahon, in Cork City. They are interested in talking to a number of possible witnesses who may be able to assist with the investigation.
16 September 2013
'No Option For Reform On The Ballot Paper', Referendum Commission Confirms
Fine Gael Deputy Director of Elections for the Seanad Abolition Referendum, Regina Doherty TD, has welcomed clarification from the Chair of the independent Referendum Commission, Ms Justice Elizabeth Dunne, that there will be no option for reform on the ballot paper, when voters are asked whether they want to abolish the Seanad on October 4th.
13 September 2007
Pat Moylan Elected Chair of Seanad
Fianna Fáil Senator Pat Moylan has been elected as Cathaoirleach of the Seanad. Mr Moylan, who is from Co. Offaly and a close associate of Tanaiste Brian Cowan, was elected unopposed when the new Seanad met for the first time since the election on Thursday afternoon.