Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I assure the House that from a tourist point of view, there is nothing less edifying than seeing the results of the movements of jarveys around the premier tourism centre of St. Stephen's Green.

I compliment the Minister for Foreign Affairs, who has been mentioned by Senators on both sides of the House, on the traditional steel he has shown. One would expect that from a Corkman anyway. He has left the Israeli Government, through its ambassador to this country, under no illusions about Ireland's position on this issue. I applaud the Leader for having made time available for an urgent debate on the matter tomorrow evening. I will reserve my comments until then.

I would like to reflect on Senator O'Toole's comments on the wider issue of the public impression and perception of the Seanad. Members will be aware that some weeks ago, I referred to the lack of co-operation by a semi-State body in attending an Oireachtas committee, which was a major issue at the time. At the time I said it was in the hands of both Houses to ensure compellability of witnesses.

As I am unsure of the exact procedures, will the Leader ask the Committee on Procedure and Privileges to examine the conclusions arrived at over many years of debate on Seanad reform and specifically to examine the role the House could usefully play in scrutinising European directives? I have argued on past occasions that the House could be used as a Second Stage debating chamber on EU directives with the relevant line Minister. After such a debate, with questioning from all sides of the House, the public would be better informed of what is happening in Europe and the directive could move to Committee Stage at the relevant committee.

Coming from rural Ireland, which the Cathaoirleach will understand, I note an increasing amount of criticism of European directives.