Sean Barrett (Independent)

I support the amendments. It is important to ensure this will not just be another Department, not simply the old Department of Finance, with two thirds of its staff being sent to the new Department, because that is why we had to be rescued by the IMF. There must be something different. There must be better accountability. The Wright report which analysed the Department of Finance referred to the need for enhanced ministerial accountability to parliament and the public. As speakers have said, this is not a very good start. That report stated: "a ... poor budgetary process obscured ministerial and government accountability to the Parliament". It also stated: "We recommend major changes in the budgetary process that would enhance Ministerial accountability to Parliament". The Seanad is trying to play a role in this. The Minister, Deputy Howlin, was open to that and it is a pity he did not have time to be with us longer. However, I fear this will be just another failed Department and that is what got us into the trouble we are in. Documents tend not be published. The requirement in the amendment proposed by Senator Byrne should be seriously considered by the Government. We need a new kind of open Department. The old examples are many. I recall a report on rail safety that forgot to mention the collapse of the Malahide viaduct. There is a culture of secrecy in the public service. As the Minister, Deputy Brendan Howlin, wants to correct it, I hope the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, will accept the amendment. There must be a different relationship between Parliament and failed Departments, which we are trying to reform.