Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)

Deputy Ó Snodaigh will recall that before we introduced any reforms, we held a debate and statements in the House on Dáil reform. Perhaps the holding of statements on Dáil reform is something we can discuss at the Whips meeting since people have settled in for one year. They are familiar with the procedures of the House and how they work. They may have other ideas as well. It is okay to raise these matters at a party political meeting but it is far better to come here and to give people the opportunity to speak and outline some of the changes or reforms they wish to bring forward. This is something we can consider at a Whips' meeting in future.

Deputy Ó Snodaigh acknowledged the work and the reforms carried out here in the past 12 months. There is no doubt that this is not a perfect Chamber. However, I put it to Deputies to show me a perfect chamber in any country. Deputies might wish to bring forward changes. This is about trying to make it as perfect as possible. We cannot make it 100% perfect, or a place where everyone is happy. However, we hope to reach a point where the majority of people are happy. I assure Deputies that I am open to any proposals to change the way we work and to change the procedures in the House. If anyone has proposals I can take them on board and we can discuss them and then bring them forward. I acknowledge the work and ideas brought forward by the Ceann Comhairle on Dáil reform.

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