I heard the issues of transparency, accountability and personal responsibility debated at length during the We the Citizens public meetings. They desire change and I believe Members also wish to improve on how the Seanad conducts its business. To change, Members must innovate and in this regard I welcome Senator McAleese's contribution in the Seanad last week. The Seanad could be the Trojan horse for an increased strengthening of our parliamentary democracy. The recommendations on page 68 of the 2004 report on Seanad reform that require only amendments to Standing Orders are simple, clear and innovative. I refer in particular to what my fellow Senator Zappone highlighted, namely, the power to scrutinise legislation and improve the deliberative process. For the Seanad to have a good audition, however, I believe it also should consider another recommendation contained on page 68 of the aforementioned report, that is, to become the principal reviewer of policy in the Houses of the Oireachtas concentrating on "medium-term economic and social planning" and having a dialogue with leaders in the community and civil society. I acknowledge I cannot describe my senatorship as truly democratic since I was appointed and not elected and I have no real mandate from anyone. However, I consider it to be my responsibility and duty as a Senator to make those connections between this esteemed House and our fellow citizens.