Seanad debates

Thursday, 17 December 2009

11:00 am

Photo of Ann OrmondeAnn Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

Given that the House has a full agenda for today and tomorrow, perhaps the Minister will issue a statement on the reason the bypass cannot be opened, even temporarily, over the Christmas break.

I support Senator Hanafin's view on the reform of the Seanad to deal with European business. Despite passing the Lisbon treaty several months ago, the House has had few opportunities to discuss EU directives and the workings of the institutions, including the European Parliament. With a new Commission set to commence work in February, the House should use the opportunity to have a full debate on decisions, directives and developments in the European Union. While information was available to members of the public during the debate on the Lisbon treaty, this is no longer the case because the Oireachtas no longer discusses European Union issues. The House should have regular debates in the new year on the activities of the European Parliament and the role and functions of the Commission.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.