Paul Connaughton (Galway East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for selecting this topic for debate. While canvassing on the recent Seanad referendum, the issue of Dáil reform was raised on a considerable number of doorsteps. I acknowledge the work on reform that has been done heretofore. From my conversations with Deputies who served in previous Dáileanna, I recognise that considerable efforts have been made to streamline the way we conduct our business.

Over the past several weeks an ambitious schedule of Dáil reform was set out. I want to ensure these reforms are enacted. From the perspective of backbenchers, they will give us more time to get involved in the legislative process and have our voices heard. Some of the reforms were proposed on the basis of a unicameral system but, while I would have liked the vote to have gone differently, I accept the will of the people. Is it still possible to implement these reforms? One of the proposals was to focus on issues of major strategic and political importance, including public accounts, financial matters, the budget, EU scrutiny and social affairs. If this proposal is implemented it will allow us to play a very important role. It was also proposed to involve people from civil society in our discussion of legislation.

I understand the need for the Whip system but it might be relaxed at certain stages of the legislative process, such as Committee Stage, so that people have more opportunity to express their views.

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