Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

The committee system which operates in this House is an integral feature of our work as politicians and legislators. As I understand it, the system has proved to be worthy and productive and is now regarded as a valuable and constructive aspect of our parliamentary activity. However, like all systems, its operations require regular attention and review. Useful reforms and adaptations must be implemented to lend greater efficiency to accommodate change. In order to promote and facilitate the meaningful role of the system, we must adopt modern practices in our approach to our work and constantly reassess and update the manner in which we deliver the fruits of our collective endeavours. Our parliamentary democracy must keep up with the rapid pace of change and we must evolve practical systems which reflect that pace and are sensitive to an ever-increasing volume of work.

The new proposals represent a welcome and enlightened approach to how the House can do its business more effectively. I am impressed with the recommendations to enhance our methods for parliamentary scrutiny of EU legislative proposals and the role we play in the oversight of such proposals. A plethora of complex issues emanates from EU institutions and their impact is pervasive. I am pleased to note the proposals improve the existing systems through the provision of additional personnel, together with other support structures in training and expertise. The expansion of the committee secretariat is a welcome development. The increased support and advisory services will be beneficial to the deliberations of the committee and will enable it to respond in a timely way to the intensity of its role.

The proposal to lend greater thoroughness to the remit of the committee on European scrutiny must be endorsed. It is critical that this committee has the appropriate access to the interaction with the relevant Ministers and departmental officials. The substantive input of this committee is essential and its role and function will be greatly enhanced through active ongoing dialogue. It is also important to ensure the participation of all stakeholders and interest groups. They must be afforded an adequate opportunity to represent their views fully. Any proposal which facilitates access is positive from the point of view of inclusiveness.

There is a sense that the public is not interested in EU affairs. If anything, the public can be apathetic where awareness of EU matters is concerned. The issues often appear remote and inconsequential when they are not. Any efforts on the part of the committee to stimulate interest and increase awareness of EU affairs must be encouraged. Any initiative on the part of the committee to improve the dissemination of information is also welcome. Public information will educate the public and will result in informed debate on the issues which have a bearing on our lives. The public needs to know and understand the practical implications of various EU measures. Efforts to promote public understanding will have a concrete effect and will encourage our citizens to avail of every opportunity to make their views and concerns known to Members. This is the essence of democracy.

It is proposed to introduce an ongoing monitoring role to the sub-committee on European scrutiny. It is imperative that deadlines are met by Oireachtas sectorial committees. Any system which improves overall efficiency must be positive. In that context, I welcome the proposals to expand the e-consultation programme and to apply modern technology to our systems of work. It is important we utilise all resources available to us and to develop and improve the overall consultation process. This will foster a better and more meaningful interface with the public.

By embracing new concepts and modern communication means, we can fulfil our role as legislators by inviting as many people as possible to contribute to our ongoing committee work. By making access to information available on-line and in a user-friendly fashion, we are promoting positive interaction. We are stimulating useful dialogue and upholding the democratic ideal of representation. This will be a valuable service to the public which has the right to take an active part in consultation and policy formulation processes. By enabling interested parties to contribute easily and on-line is a pragmatic suggestion and deserves to be explored further and developed. It serves all our interests to receive a comprehensive view of public opinion on matters of policy and emerging issues.

I support any measures which seek to involve all citizens in the decision-making process. The workings of the Dáil and Seanad can often appear obscure to the wider public. Any initiative which leads to transparency in the democratic process and seeks to engage with the public in a tangible way must be encouraged. These proposals are enlightened and I hope they will have far-reaching consequences in how the committees will function and how the public will be engaged in the process. These innovative proposals will enhance the parliamentary process and ensure our work is both meaningful and effective.

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