John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In his comments, Deputy Eamon Ryan probably struck the nail on the head in relation to the deficiency which I saw in the Department's submission as well. It was very much angled towards examining events after the fact rather than having a sufficient role, which I originally envisaged for this committee, in advance of the preparation of the different stages in the budgetary process. We must have that discussion with the Secretaries General and the Ministers when they are here.

Today, I am anxious that we would, as Deputy Cullinane said, flesh out where we see our own role.

We have been given riding orders by the parliamentary reform committee but today - before we even meet the Ministers and Secretaries General or obtain the legal advice - we will be receiving a presentation on the option papers that were circulated in advance of the first meeting. The presentation will deal with how we envisage our role before we have any discussions with outside bodies.