Seanad debates
Wednesday, 16 October 2002
European Union (Scrutiny) Bill, 2001 changed from European Union Bill, 2001: Second Stage.
It is not a matter of reviewing issues once they have been included in directives – that is like bolting the door when the horse has gone. Reviews must be undertaken before issues are included in secondary legislation or Ministers travel onwards in Europe where they can be swamped by the bureaucracy. If we are all part of the European project, we must work like demons on this scrutiny committee and ensure this Chamber is utilised much more thoughtfully and in an investigative manner to deal with many of the matters which come before the Oireachtas. I propose that this House be used in a fuller and more comprehensive manner under the guidance of the Cathaoirleach. We should examine European affairs in this House as well as at the committee. I endorse the Bill and the amendments proposed.
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