Paul Bradford (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I ask the Leader to engage with the Government and the appropriate Minister to ensure Members of this House will be allowed to play a constructive role in the banking inquiry. We all welcome the fact that an inquiry is about to start. I heard last night's media reports which suggest that a narrative is emerging to the effect that this is purely a matter for the Dáil. I accept that the Committee of Public Accounts is a stand-alone committee that comprises Dáil Deputies only. I would have presumed that this special committee would reach out into both Houses of the Oireachtas. Many Members of this House - I am certainly not canvassing for the job - could play a valid, constructive and neutral role in the banking inquiry. It would be disappointing if that were not facilitated.

As far as I know, last night's meeting of the Whips, at which the banking inquiry was discussed, was confined to Dáil Whips. We need to remind the Government that a short few months ago, the Irish people decided that this House should be retained so that it can play a constructive role in the good governance of this nation in the future. I believe Senators should be part of the inquiry team. We were part of the economic debate - good or bad, and positive or negative - over the past decade. I ask the Leader to engage with the Government and ensure the Seanad is represented in that inquiry. I feel absolutely sure that Senators will play a constructive and positive role in this significant inquiry. I am a little disappointed that the narrative emerging from the media and from political sources in the other House seems to indicate that we will have no part in the process. That should be changed.