Martin Conway (Fine Gael)
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I thank the Minister of State. Four colleagues are present. I propose that each member asks a question and the Minister of State may respond to each one individually. It is important we note the significance of this first public meeting of the committee. It is a key milestone in Seanad reform. It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the huge contribution of the previous Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, who is now the Leas-Chathaoirleach of both the Seanad and this committee, for his steadfast commitment to implementing one of the key recommendations of the 2013 Seanad report and other Seanad reports.

There is no doubt but that a democratic deficit exists between the EU and the people. What happens in Brussels and in EU institutions is considered as being a far distance away from the people on the ground. It is only when directives are transposed, implemented and affect people's lives that the true meaning sometimes rises to the top. The Government's commitment that by May 2026, zero directives will await transposition is a welcome development but we should go further. We should not have any undue delay, from 2026 on, in transposing directives into Irish law. These directives are for the common good and the good of the citizens of this country. The Government plays a fundamental role through its MEPs, the Commission and so on in negotiating such directives. They are always done for the common good. That is why there should never be a delay in implementing EU directives. It is akin to justice delayed being justice denied. Delaying the implementation and transposition of directives means that the quality of life of the citizens of this country is delayed. We are paying significant money in fines for directives we are unduly delaying to transpose. That is taxpayers' money and it should not happen.