Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The reform package we are introducing is essentially a set of common sense measures to improve the way the Dáil works. This House has two key functions; these are to hold the Government to account and enact and amend legislation. We must improve the way in which we do both of these. The way we do our business is based on a set of ideas and systems that have evolved since the 19th century, and that process of evolution must take another step forward. Parliament is different from other work places, and the work done by Deputies extends well beyond the formal sitting times for this House. Nevertheless, the Dáil can no longer work in a way that is so far removed from the experience of fellow citizens. We must change the way we work and show a more timely capacity to hold the Executive to account and make our legislative process more inclusive and timely. We need not only to listen to other voices but show that we are listening.

Over the past decade the amount of resources available to individual Deputies has been significant increased. The staff compliment in the research and library facilities has improved enormously compared to when I was first elected to the Dáil in 1989. Our structures and systems have not been reformed at the same pace. The changes being proposed today will require deeper and more considered engagement in the legislative process. Committees are not a platform for party political speeches and soundbite opportunities, and they require considered effort and engagement if they are to work effectively.

The measures we are introducing to this House are building on reforms already introduced over the past two years, such as an additional slot for Leaders' Questions on a Thursday, Topical Issue debates, Friday sittings to allow Deputies from both the Opposition and Government benches to introduce Bills and a reduction by nine in the number of Oireachtas committees. Today's proposed changes to Standing Orders will significantly enhance scrutiny of legislation, spending and policy, as well as the capacity of Deputies to hold the Government to account. It will also open the legislative process to new voices and ideas.

For example, in future all non-emergency legislation will be required to be sent to the relevant Oireachtas committee for examination, debate and consideration with the input of relevant experts, if there is a wish to do so. We have seen how this process was used to positive effect, particularly when it comes to public confidence in the law making process, with the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill earlier this year. I know from ministerial colleagues that they have often found this type of scrutiny of legislation before proceeding to drafting to be particularly useful, as it can catch anomalies or unintended consequences early, hence reducing the need for late amendments. It can also help in introducing new, previously unconsidered angles or ideas.

Another positive change to how we do business will be a significant role for Oireachtas committees in fiscal accountability. With the budget now in October, for the first time Oireachtas committees can consider departmental Estimates before any money is spent and not, as was previously the case, only after the fact.

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