Jim Higgins (Fine Gael)

This morning we had a succinct but interesting discussion on the need to reform the Seanad. The brief debate was led by the Acting Chairman, Senator Ross. One of the key elements arising from the meeting of the Fianna Fáil Senators which decided to bequeath the Chair to you, a Chathaoirligh, was a determination on the part of the Taoiseach and the Leader of the House to reform the Seanad. We should not confine reform to mere aspiration but should put the process in train immediately. I suggest we establish an all-party committee to do that. Such a committee should represent all interests in this House and not exclude Independents. We should get the process under way and arrive at definitive reforming conclusions within as short a time as possible because although the Government has a huge majority, one never knows the day or the hour.