Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would have thought it was both logical and desirable that we would participate early. Many of these programmes are only being developed. If we are involved at the initial stage of the development of these programmes, we can have our voice heard and exercise a level of influence. The preparatory work involved will be time-consuming, especially as there are a considerable number of proposals within the justice and home affairs section being pursued at the same time. The final language publication occurred last year, as far as the setting up is concerned. Accordingly, I was very keen early on in the session that we would be in a position to participate. It is not often possible to meet deadlines; we saw that last night in terms of a Seanad debate with Senator Ó Donnghaile. I always take the view that if we can get in early, we can help shape the architecture. I believe that is important. In the overall context, we need to ensure that the Garda Síochána, as the dedicated responsibility authority under the current scheme, is also fully prepared to embrace what to my mind is a very positive initiative. I ask members to do what the Chairman proposed at the outset, namely, that he would note it, but I hope that at an early stage tomorrow or next week the Houses of the Oireachtas could approve the motion. As the programme is rolled out, both I and the Garda Commissioner would be very happy to keep the committee informed of developments insofar as we can.