Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I hope they are implemented to a greater extent than the consolidated version of the treaties, particularly the Lisbon treaty and the role of the Oireachtas in this regard. I was a member of a committee chaired by the Minister of State, Deputy Perry, which published a report on 23 May 2008. I know the Minister of State, Deputy Creighton, has been very supportive of this. That committee specifically recommended that significant reforms are made to Dáil and Seanad procedures to ensure regular consideration of EU matters in plenary session. However, that has not been the case. That was a clear commitment by all parties that supported both referendums on the Lisbon treaty. It was clearly stated that the Oireachtas would have a say on legislative procedures in the European Parliament and that we were part and parcel of Europe. However, committees do not represent a full Parliament - the Dáil and Seanad constitute the fully elected Parliament.

I again appeal to the Leader once a month to select issues going through the European Parliament and Commission to be discussed in this House with all its knowledge and expertise. I do not believe it would need the back-up that has been mentioned. People can discuss issues here and we can then send a report of the proceedings to the Minister of State with responsibility for Europe or to the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. We in this House could contribute to many significant and important issues. This would be an issue worth bringing before the people who will respond very positively when they see the important role this House is playing in the implementation of the Lisbon treaty.