Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

In terms of the experiment suggested, it would not suit the case here. We could keep on adding to the commission until it was bigger than this House or the Dáil, under the proposals that have been made.

As far as partnership is concerned, the staff in this House work very long hours depending on the legislation that is going through. This week is an example. There is a suggestion that as they will not be represented on this commission it is in some way a slight upon their work. That is certainly not the case. The Government is very committed to the whole concept of partnership between management and staff in all offices staffed by civil servants. I have more than a suspicion that members do not realise the wide range of matters that partnership committees deal with. Neither can they be expected to know the degree to which, in several Departments, they are supplemented by structural groups through which various staff groups interact with what we call the MACs. We have local management and advisory committees and there is already one in this office.

The Minister for Finance and the Government made it clear, from the earliest announcement of the Bill, that they would welcome local arrangements which would provide for staff representation below the level of the commission. It will be for the commission, or the local management, to make any desirable moves on this.

The commission will be autonomous and very representative. The only disadvantage to this House is a numerical one, compared to the other House. This House will have three representatives, plus its Cathaoirleach and will be well represented in making its case. I expect in such a small group the debate will be at a very high level. I expect that it will go about its business in the best interests of both Houses and that balance will prevail. The staff have their say within the structures of social partnership, which are sufficient. The arrangements made on their behalf under benchmarking suggest that they are very well represented in making their case.