Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I also welcome the Minister and, with the indulgence of the Chair, echo the points made by Senator Alex White. I had already made the same points on the Order of Business today. We might have a debate some day on the Constitution in order that outsiders might learn something about the importance of the Cabinet, membership of it and how it is a collective decision making process. It is the most exalted position in our democracy and not to be rubbished by ignorant comment.

I wish to make another constitutional point. The function of a second chamber of parliament is to pick up on things that might go wrong in the first chamber. The Seanad should never pervert the will of the people, as articulated in the other House, and we have said that in all of our discussions. It should be used to change, inform, improve and do all the other things. This is a minor recommendation and it is rare to amend the Finance Bill in the Upper House. It shows one the need for a second thought on an issue. Even though this is only a small matter, the same applies. It is an important function. If there is another place to consider the issues and decide if changes need to be made, it takes pressure off the Dáil. I support the recommendation. It is important to see it in its context.