Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

The section deals with updating the definition of "measures". It largely involves a terminological change. Deputy McCormack's point is valid in the broader context of the section dealing with scrutiny and the need to update the legislative powers of scrutiny.

The Lisbon treaty gives extra powers to the Oireachtas to consult the Commission in devising policy, in addition to the watchdog power in respect of what is coming out at the other end. With regard to what Deputy McCormack stated, the result should be much more localised and should reflect much better the proposals of national Parliaments. They will now have a role in the consideration of policy issued annually by the Commission and they will also have a more direct role in keeping a close eye on the transposition of legislation to ensure it does not transgress in respect of subsidiarity. What Deputy McCormack said is quite relevant to the experiences of very many people.

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