John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

I apologise for not being here for some of the contributions but I heard them on the monitor. I must leave for a meeting at 6.30 p.m. but I am glad the Seanad is debating this serious issue. I thank Senators Dan Boyle and Deirdre de Búrca for moving the motion.

Our national political institutions are at the heart of the State and it is vitally important that they remain effective and relevant in a changing world. As such, reform of the Upper House deserves our attention and our dedicated efforts to bring about beneficial change, when warranted, to strengthen the legitimacy and efficacy of Seanad Éireann.

The programme for Government makes a clear and unambiguous commitment in that regard. The programme states that the Government will determine the extent of cross-party agreement on the recommendations of the report on Seanad reform to advance proposals for implementation. The commitment to seek to advance Seanad reform forms a part of the Government's overall approach to Oireachtas reform. The programme states that the Government will also reconsider the recommendations of the Joint Committee on the Constitution regarding Dáil reform, and will pursue the issue of reform of Oireachtas sitting times, Oireachtas procedures and strengthening the role of committees.

In February 2003 the Seanad Committee on Procedure and Privileges established the Sub-Committee on Seanad Reform. The terms of reference of the sub-committee provided that it should review and make recommendations on the future composition and functions of the Seanad, particularly its electoral system and its role in the areas of legislation, parliamentary accountability, public policy and EU affairs. It is notable that the sub-committee did not work in isolation. The public's involvement was encouraged and 161 written submissions were received. In addition, the sub-committee held four days of public hearings. This demonstrates a considerable commitment on its part to engage as fully as possible with society.

The Sub-Committee on Seanad Reform published its report in April 2004.