David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I second Senator O'Brien's proposed amendment. I also share the concern expressed about the Houses of the Oireachtas (Appointments to Certain Offices) Bill. It is inappropriate for it to be shoved through, even though it is a short Bill. There should be time for reflection and amendments, particularly amendments on Report Stage. What most concerns me about the Bill is the attempt to set specific time limits for the offices of Clerk and Clerk Assistant of the Seanad and the same two offices in the Dáil. I have been a Member of this House for nearly 30 years, and I served first under a very fine Clerk of the Seanad who went on to be Clerk of the Dáil. We benefitted greatly from his experience.

If one is Clerk of the Seanad and one holds that position for a limited period - there does not appear to be any mechanism for reappointing the same person; it is just about setting a particular term - where does that person go afterwards? Where is the next appointment after being Clerk of the Seanad? One can become Clerk of the Dáil or go nowhere. It is a very complex job. One must have a great deal of knowledge, experience and understanding of the rather curious ways in which this House works. I am not sure it is appropriate to set specific limited times for this office. It is better to leave it vague.

In the 30 years I have been a Member of this House we have been extremely well served by the various people who were Clerk of the Seanad, although we might have had differences of opinion with them from time to time. I do not wish to see that situation disturbed. I am not sure from where this arises, because I have not seen any great difficulties, certainly not in Seanad Éireann. It is not for me to talk about the Dáil, but in the Seanad we have had no difficulties whatever with the operations of the various clerks under whom I have served. It is a pity to tinker with this important office at this stage. I hope the Leader will be able to say that we will take Second Stage today and the other Stages tomorrow, on Friday or whenever.