Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

During the debate on tourism last week, I suggested that we might invite the First Minister and Deputy First Minister of the Northern Ireland Assembly to address the Seanad and, perhaps, engage in a question and answer session. In the first instance, this is a matter for the Committee on Procedure and Privileges but I wish to go a step further by requesting the Leader and the committee to draw up a comprehensive proposal on how we might have return visits, the type of subjects we would cover and the structures that would apply. The last report produced on Seanad reform emphasised interaction between the Administrations on this island. During the recent elections there was considerable debate on reforming the Seanad but, while these demands are genuine, reform will take time. By developing a proposal based on what I suggest, however, we could signal one element of reform of the Seanad. I would like to think this issue could be addressed in the coming weeks rather than months. It would be well received by the First Minister and Deputy First Minister and would benefit the country because the subjects which could be discussed include tourism, agriculture, waterways, arts and culture. Such an initiative would be in the best interests of both parts of this island, as well as a credit to the Seanad.