Sean Barrett (Independent)

I move amendment No. 118:

In page 47, subsection (4), line 35, after "Minister" to insert ", with the advice and consent of Seanad Éireann,".

This is an attempt to give the Seanad a role. The Minister of State opposed such a provision previously, but Parliament has a role in addressing the State's many problems. There are 42 new Senators and 77 new Deputies. Involving Parliament would play a part in the State's recovery following our rescue by the IMF. It is for this reason that I have tabled my amendment. The Seanad has Members with expertise in many areas and we could assist in the important work of national recovery.