Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

The debate on Seanad reform will take place in the House from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. this evening. I regret it is only a two-hour debate because it could last for an entire day. I ask that the Clerk present the 25 Members of the 23rd Seanad who were not Members of the Dáil or Seanad heretofore, and the ten Members who had been Members of the Dáil — 35 in all — with the last two reports on Seanad reform so they can read them over the coming two or three weeks, or over Christmas. Bearing in mind that there is some urgent legislation to come before the House in addition to the budget debate, which will be followed by the Christmas recess, perhaps we can have a full-day debate on Seanad reform in the first or second week of February.

There are many good ideas on Seanad reform. As one who played a central role in the process, in addition to the present Cathaoirleach, who was a Whip, I note that 30% of all legislation is initiated in this House. This is an excellent means of assisting the Government and it results in much better scrutiny of legislation. The Seanad has always been referred to as the Upper House. Ministers look forward to coming to this Chamber because they know that on most occasions, legislation can be scrutinised here according to its merits in a non-partisan way.