The Dáil's newest member, Helen McEntee, was welcomed to Leinster House today by the Taoiseach and members of the Fine Gael parliamentary party.
Ms McEntee won the Meath East by-election following the death of her father, Shane.
She said she visited the graveyard this morning to "have a few words".
Ms McEntee said she would do the best she could to carry on the work of her father.
She said she was "absolutely honoured" that the people of Meath East had put their trust in her.
Enda Kenny said it was a very proud moment for anyone to win a by-election, particularly after such tragic circumstances.
He said Ms McEntee was joining the biggest Fine Gael parliamentary party ever, and that they would do all they could to help her in her work.
