Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

I might have some difficulty following the consistency of political philosophy but there may be a very considerable consistency of business philosophy.

Before proceeding I wish to congratulate and compliment the authors of the report on a fine, comprehensive survey. The chapter on functions is a very important part of the report and in broad principle I agree with all the recommendations there but if they were implemented in full we would be biting off a large amount at one go. That side of the report should be implemented and gradually absorbed by stages rather than at one fell swoop. Checking or vetting, whether by sub-committee or the full House, of important public appointments will take a long time. We have taken some steps in the direction of contact with Europe by concentrating rather more than is possible for the other House on European issues. It is unrealistic to think we would always, or even that often, be able to second guess at a glance what specialist civil servants have been working on for months, if not years, in regard to particular areas. On the whole, we have to stick to the broader political issues or measures of particular interest to the public at various times. We must be realistic about what we can do.

The third point which was referred to by the Leader relates to lobby groups coming to the House to give us their views at a formative stage of legislation, perhaps when no more than the heads of a Bill are prepared. I have no difficulty with that, but the way it was put is that the House would then send a recommendation to Government as to whether to proceed with legislation. Being practical about it, that could put the Government party in a bit of difficulty if the Government, having considered these representations, decided it would proceed with the Bill. It would be best to formulate it in terms of passing on concerns to be taken into consideration, but in a general way, not necessarily taking a hard and fast position before the Government's mind on the matter is fully known. I appreciate the perspective of the Opposition; that would not be a problem.