Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

It is an assumption but my point is that, unfortunately, I do not have that facility. We need to properly resource researchers on all sides of the House. Senator Burke's point about the system in Canada was quite interesting. While we cannot equate ourselves to Senators in America, they get $1 million a year to run three or four offices in their respective constituencies, including a huge back-up staff. Obviously we are not comparable but the point is worth noting.

Obviously, we welcome the Bill, although I would be concerned about the politically biased make-up of the commission. It all depends on the mathematics but the fact that the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad and the Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil will be members of the commission will automatically tilt it in favour of the Government. Obviously, we are lucky to have someone of your stature and independence, a Chathaoirligh, but it is something at which we could look in the future. I look forward to Fine Gael playing an active and constructive role in the commission.