Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The Government's White Paper on regulatory reform lists a number of actions concerning the legislative process. It indicates that better information on new legislation is commendable. It promises that Departments and offices will provide such improved information, including the draft heads of a Bill where feasible and appropriate.

The Taoiseach will recall that I have raised this matter with him on several occasions, and he has stated that it is being implemented where possible. Does the Taoiseach agree that the release of heads of a Bill, once they have been agreed by the Cabinet, should be a matter of standard practice? That would represent a significant improvement in addressing legislation in the House, rather than the current sporadic system whereby the Taoiseach indicates that his Department and others are making an effort to be compliant while others have their hind legs dug in the sand. Is it not time for a new approach across the board, which would become standard practice? It would be of benefit to all parties, including the Taoiseach's party and, no doubt, to his colleagues in their own time in Opposition.

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