Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I take this opportunity on my first visit to the new Seanad to welcome new Members and to wish the Seanad well in its work.

I welcome that we are meeting here today to consider the European Union (Scrutiny) Bill. The Government attaches great importance to addressing public concern relating to democratic accountability on EU issues. This was identified by the National Forum on Europe as a key issue in the aftermath of last year's referendum on the Nice treaty. I know that it is a concern which is shared by all Members of this House.

In recognition of these concerns the Government decided earlier this year, in consultation with the Oireachtas, to introduce new arrangements to enhance Oireachtas scrutiny of EU business and to improve accountability and transparency in relation to EU matters generally. The new agreed procedures, which came into effect on 1 July, provide for ongoing interaction between the Government and the Oireachtas throughout the EU legislative process.