Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

Often they must share time and have only two or three minutes. However, members of smaller parties receive more time to debate issues. Perhaps we should examine the possibility of introducing a system whereby more time would be given to larger parties in debates. That would be only fair in a democracy.

On the issue of guillotines, in my short term as a Whip I have heard much bluff and bluster from the Opposition and manual votes being called after the results of electronic voting have been announced. That undermines the credibility of the new electronic voting system that we put in place to ensure more expeditious voting. I urge the Opposition to be constructive rather than obstructive to ensure the smooth running of votes called in the House. I understand that dividing the House is part and parcel of democracy, but surely the results of electronic voting as announced should be accepted as the de facto result.

We have discussed the issue of Dáil reform for a very long time. Dáil Deputies have a duty to ensure that their work rate is exposed to the public. Often when we are attacked from outside we collectively cannibalise each other in the House rather than defending the profession and outlining what we do as public representatives in our constituencies and, more importantly, in Parliament.

Committees have been grossly under-reported. I would welcome any proposal of the Chief Whip's which would ensure that the committees are more proactive and that there was more reporting of the workings of committees. They do great work. They can interview deputations, and address and outline concerns. Members of other committees can also attend meetings and listen to the views of deputations and form opinions. That is something that is under-reported. If we implement the Chief Whip's proposals and establish a website with the possibility of linking into the various committees, it would be very beneficial.

I urge the Opposition to engage in proactive and constructive debate on these Dáil reform proposals and welcome the broad thrust of them. I hope we can have a more efficient Parliament in the years ahead.

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