Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 3:

In page 6, between lines 8 and 9, to insert the following:"(3) A framework shall be adopted by resolution of both Houses of the Oireachtas as soon as may be after it is approved by the Government.".

There was a general measure of agreement the last day, including from the Minister, that the Seanad should be involved in policy-making on these matters and, in fact, that it has a fine record in this regard. I mentioned the Wild Birds Protection Act 1930, which was introduced by the then Senator Samuel Brown, and the proposals brought forward by Senator David Norris to do with Dublin city's built heritage. Senator Ivana Bacik brought an environmental Bill before the House six or seven years ago. I understand some of the Government Senators are willing to support our proposal that the national adaptation framework should be adopted by resolution of both Houses of the Oireachtas, following approval by the Cabinet. The number of asterisks on the amendment list and the provisions they reference suggest the Minister envisages that type of role for both Houses, which I very much welcome. It is reflective of the consensus we saw here on Committee Stage. I am happy to pass this particular ball to the Minister of State today.