Seanad Éireann

The Cathaoirleach Sheanad Éireann is Senator Paddy Burke, FG

The Cathaoirleach is the sole judge of order in the Seanad. His job involves:

• Calling members to speak and all speeches must be addressed to the Chair.
• Putting questions to the House, supervising votes and declaring the results.
• Keeping control of the Seanad debates and making sure Senators behave in an orderly manner.
• He has the power to suspend or adjourn the House.

A typical day in the Seanad involves:

• Debating and voting on legislation,
• Discussing matters of national importance,
• Attending Committee meetings,
• Providing important contributions and expertise to topics being debated.

In addition to their parliamentary duties, Senators also work on behalf of their electorate.
Find out more about the Seanad here

Senator Mary Ann O Brien is from Kildare. Read more about her here.