David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I suppose the Lisbon treaty ensures all three institutions are involved as well as member states. I remember when I chaired this committee that we dealt with quite a number of motions dealing with the European Commission as well. At one stage we sent a reasoned opinion. There was involvement and it is up to committees and parliaments to decide how much involvement and scrutiny they want. The Lisbon treaty changed matters and now member states, such as that encompassed by our Houses, have involvement and input into what happens. The proposed changes must be sent to committees and parliaments across Europe to be debated and discussed. That gives them the opportunity to have an input before any decision is made.