Sean Barrett (Independent)

The list is inclusive of but not limited to those acts which are enumerated; it is not meant to be an exclusive list. I thank colleagues for their support and welcome the Minister's response, as always. Putting in place a process of consultation but not taking on board what Parliament wishes is part of the system which has the country where it is. Parliament was repeatedly bypassed, we went bankrupt and the IMF had to come in to rescue us. With 42 new Senators and 77 new Deputies, we want to help the Minister play a part and in doing so, we make suggestions. It is easier to change a Parliament than it is to change permanent governments, social partners or the senior Civil Service, so it is important that all the people elected to the Oireachtas command some audience with the people who make decisions.

Senator Ó Clochartaigh mentioned that we have a Minister who is most committed, interested, qualified and capable, which I appreciate. That might not always be the case so giving the power to amend the list anonymously and without legislation does not recognise Ireland's current position. It is a country where so much governance has failed and it has had to be rescued. My general point about the Government is that it has been too conservative, as governance rather than the Government was the failure. We need to examine some of the institutions which created our national problems. We may divert resources into having veterinary professionals provide for these matters at significant expense at a time when we are trying to develop an international food business.

I accept the Minister's advice, as well as his credentials, bona fides and interest in this area. He is one of the first Ministers to come before the House at the Leader's request and has done so to discuss his plans for the food industry which have been strongly welcomed by all Senators. However, Members of the Oireachtas also have a role in this regard, which is the reason I have enumerated a number of procedures. Where Members believe something needs be done, we should submit a proposal and give the Minister the benefit of the experience of those elected to the House. Many of our institutions do not work and must be reformed by elected representatives. That is the purpose of the amendment.

The Minister and I are ad idem on so many issues that I am prepared to withdraw the amendment. It is important, nonetheless, for both Houses to recognise that much needs to be done to correct the dreadful position in which the country finds itself having been rescued by the International Monetary Fund last December 12 months.