Vincent P Martin (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Apologies, a vote was called in the Seanad. I thank the Cathaoirleach for facilitating the Senators. The expert practitioner, Mr. David Leonard, in his contribution mentioned the procedural improvements - the proposed introduction of video recording and translation. They may well have a positive net effect on the number of judicial reviews, for instance. They would certainly, I believe, help transparency, accountability and a better understanding of the process. I would like to get our guests' views. Are those proposed improvements to be welcomed?

I would try to get some underlying agreement. I do not want to pursue anything, but would we all, or would most of us, accept the reality of burden-sharing as a concept once it is fair and proportionate? I would like to get the guests' views as advocates often working heroically on the front line. Do they accept that Europe is stronger together and that this is not one country's problem? We saw a great example in the past couple of days as a result of Brexit. I would not like to see 27 other countries on different pages. What of a joined-up approach?

They are general questions. I would like to try to build a consensus because this is one of the biggest challenges of our time. Consensus was key for the Good Friday Agreement. Consensus in the Republic of Ireland was vitally important in how we dealt with Brexit. It was not turned into a party political issue, which can cause division. We have to lead as politicians. We cannot merely wash our hands of it. If there is a divisive moment later down the road, we have to lead from the front as public representatives. I would like to hear the guests' views on those questions. Perhaps, if I may, I will ask Mr. Leonard to elaborate on those proposed improvements. Mr. Leonard stated they should have a positive impact.