Derek McDowell (Labour)

I support colleagues on the need for debates on a number of current issues. I was a member of the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution which sat during the last and the previous Oireachtas. One of the issues debated was reform of this House. It was, in a sense, a false debate characterised by Government codology – people supporting reforms in the sure knowledge they were unlikely to see the light of day. One way we can demonstrate that we are serious about reform is to use our time and the power and functions we have to the maximum extent. The Leader can show good example and demonstrate our seriousness by allowing a number of sitting days, between now and the projected return of the Dáil, to debate issues such as the economy, Campus Ireland and the impending war in Iraq. I appeal to her to use this opportunity to make the Seanad relevant within the confines of its current functions.