Patrick Nulty (Dublin West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Taoiseach referred to Dáil reform. Is he aware that earlier today the CEOs of eight highly-respected civil society organisations were obliged to write to the Ceann Comhairle as a result of fears that the Committee on Procedures and Privileges intends to restrict access to the audio-visual, AV, room for civil society groups? I refer, in this regard, to groups such as the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, the National Women's Council and other NGOs. Will the Taoiseach make time available for a debate on this matter, particularly as the decision relating to it was taken without any consultation with the overwhelming majorities of Deputies? The matter has largely been dealt with in secret by a committee which meets in secret. If we intent on discussing reform, I am of the view that we should be opening up this House to civil society groups rather than shutting it down. Will the Taoiseach comment on this issue?

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