Margaret Conlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

------that would be fine and it would demonstrate that there could be no cover-ups.

I became a Deputy in 2007 and I had not previously had the experience of being a member of a local authority. When I first entered the House and heard people refer to procedure, practices and Standing Orders, it was as if they were speaking a foreign language. However, as one lives with the system, one becomes accustomed to the different practices which obtain. When I first came here, I was astonished by the fact that so few Members come into the Chamber to hear what others had to say. However, one quickly discovers how busy one's day can be. One must attend committee and party meetings and host different constituency and other groups which want to highlight various matters of concern. The Oireachtas is a very busy place.

I am astonished and, at times, disgusted by the way in which the business of the House is conducted. The Order of Business commences at 10.30 a.m. and we are lucky if it concludes before lunchtime. We are also fortunate if any legitimate discussion takes place during the remainder of the day. There are some weeks when Members on the Opposition benches ask the same questions on legislation they posed in previous weeks. We must engage in our work in a much more productive manner. I have no difficulty with proposals to have additional sitting days. However, I would have a difficulty if business were to continue to be conducted as it is at present.

Any reform of the political system must contemplate how more women can be attracted into politics. Previous speakers referred to the hours we work, the family-friendly nature of the business we are in and the processes relating to the selection of candidates, which is a matter to be dealt with outside the House. Women comprise 50% of the population but their level of representation in the House stands at 13.8%. The latter means that Ireland is ranked a disgraceful 84th in the world in respect of female representation. We must find a way to engage women and to bestow a role upon them.

The Government is examining these issues and others, and, in that context, I am happy to support its amendment to the motion.

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