Chairs Elected To The Oireachtas

Two new Chairmen have been appointed to the Oireachtas Committee.

Ciaran Lynch TD, for Cork South Central has been elected as Chairman to the newly formed Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and Gaeltacht.

Noel Coonan TD for Tipperary North was elected to the Vice-Chair position in the same department.

Cork East TD, David Stanton was elected to the position of Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality.

The Vice-Chair position will be held by Joanna Tuffy TD for Dublin Mid West.

Speaking on his appointment, Deputy Stanton said: “I am grateful that my Oireachtas colleagues have elected me to this important position and I am eager that the work of this Committee be relevant and address the genuine concerns of the public to the fullest extent.

Traditionally, the Defence, Justice and Equality Committee has been a forum for Oireachtas members from all parties and none to have a meaningful input into key legislation and policy areas which have real significance.

I intend to work with my colleagues so that this Committee plays a meaningful role in helping to shape opinion while also addressing some of the most pressing issues of the day.”

Deputy Lynch commented: “I am delighted that Oireachtas members from all sides have put their faith in me to Chair this key Committee. Oireachtas Committees have a strong tradition of being non-partisan and inclusive. During my tenure, I intend to continue with this practice.

“This particular Committee has an extremely broad remit and will be shadowing the activities of a number of Departments. We will have several important matters to address and some key pieces of work to undertake. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure this Committee makes a real impact over the course of this Oireachtas.”

The Committees will hold meetings shortly to identify its work programme and priorities.

(BMcN)