Mark Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not want to see fatalism being replaced by pessimism and in light of EU policies 1,000 people per week emigrating. I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for announcing that we will get reports on EU legislation that have been decided at committee level. However, what we are not getting - I ask the Leader to clarify this - is what was actually decided upon. Did the committee make any changes to the proposals put before it and, if so, may we see what it has done? We realise it is not easy for our staff to keep an eye on all the material that comes from committees, of which there is much, including many reports. Perhaps a short note could be prepared along with the report from the committee stating that no amendments were made to the proposals or, if amendments had been made, what those were. The Leader is not at fault in this area but there is a range of legislation not only by the Opposition but by Government in respect of proposals that would improve the economy.

I note today that there is no legislation on the Order Paper. As the Leader is aware we on this side of the House fully support his efforts for the running of the House but it shows there is not a real and genuine attempt by the Government to reform the way politics is done in this country. If the Government was genuine about improving the position, it would have legislation in the House to cut red tape to create jobs and improve society. I know the Leader will do all he can to rectify the situation but it cannot be allowed to continue. We have no legislation today and a couple of Bills tomorrow.