Ivor Callely (Independent)

We live in interesting times. The public is deeply concerned by what is happening in the country and the role and impact of the EU in our sovereign State. The Single European Act is under review as we approach the 20th anniversary in 2012 of the formal launch of the Single Market in 1992 and the current economic downturn is putting pressure on the Single Market and the issue of protectionism. Towards a Single Market Act has been published and it contains 50 new proposals. This warrants public and national debate and I would appreciate it if the Leader can assist by arranging a debate in this House on the Single European Act.

On a separate note, but one of significant interest to me and to this House, I read in The Irish Times today: "The Oireachtas should be very cautious in carrying out inquiries that could have an impact on citizens' reputations, a former attorney general has warned."