In his absence we elected Deputy Blaney as Vice-Chairman of the Committee and I look forward to working with him in the years ahead.

I thank the Chairman and Members for electing me Vice-Chairman. I look forward to working with everyone. It is my first time on a Committee, as Members know, and I hope I will be of some benefit to the farming and fishing communities.

I wish Deputy Blaney well. I am delighted that the Independent Members of this Dáil are being looked after by the Government. Deputy Blaney and Deputy Healy-Rae will make a masterful contribution to Dáil business. I wish Deputy Blaney well on his appointment.

Talent is always recognised, Deputy.

I can see that.

I congratulate Deputy Blaney on his election. He will go a long way towards calming troubled waters. We are men of the same nature, given that Deputy Blaney comes from within five miles of Malin Head, and I come from within six miles of Mizen Head.