Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

I support the suggestion made by Deputy Kenny. It follows on from the suggestion made by Deputy Higgins yesterday that the House should have a debate on the role and function of committees.

However, the immediate issue that must be addressed relates to the number of committees to be established, as well as the chairing of those committees. I understand the Taoiseach has proposed to establish 21 committees, 18 of which will be chaired by Members from the Government benches. This is manifestly unfair by any standards. In many Parliaments it is the practice that committees are chaired by Members from the Opposition, particularly committees that mark Departments and Ministers. Is it purely coincidental that the increased number of committees coincides with the number of Independents who support the Government? Has the Taoiseach struck a deal with the Independents for the chairmanship or vice-chairmanship of committees in return for their continued support for the Government?

See this speech in context