Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte mhór roimh an Taoiseach agus, ar son Sheanadóirí Fhianna Fáil, gabhaim mo bhuíochas leis as ucht teacht anseo inniu chun labhairt linn.

I wish to address the Taoiseach on two issues, namely, Seanad reform and Brexit. After over a dozen reports on Seanad reform, it is now incumbent on the Taoiseach and the Government to meaningfully engage with the Seanad reform process. Fianna Fáil supports the Seanad 2016 Bill which implements the Manning report on Seanad reform. The Bill is in keeping with our explicit commitments in our manifesto, An Ireland for All. Fianna Fáil was the only parliamentary party to oppose the abolition of the Seanad in 2013 and to set out detailed reform proposals at that time. While affirming the importance and value of the Upper House, Fianna Fáil recognises the need for expansive reform in the Seanad to revive its popular legitimacy and to restore its important role in the legislative process. This stance has been supported by the recent report of the working group on Seanad reform, which echoes many of the recommendations made by Fianna Fáil in 2014.

One of the key points we made at that time, which were raised in the Manning report and which our leader was able to implement was appointing three Independent Senators. We have been able to appreciate the value of the contributions these Senators have made to this Seanad. The Bill draws on the Manning report and reflects much of previous 2014 Fianna Fáil Bill in the area. After 12 reports on Seanad reform, we now need real action not more idle talk. This Bill provides a clear route forward to reform the Upper House. It is vital that, following his failed campaign to abolish the Seanad, the Taoiseach should engage with he process in a meaningful fashion and ensure that the legislation passes through the Dáil on this occasion.

The outcome of the referendum on Britain's membership of the EU is hugely disappointing. While we respect the views of the voters, we regard the outcome as a bad result for Ireland, the United Kingdom and the European Union. What is now needed is a calm, stable and measured approach. Our focus should be on showing that Ireland plans to remain a committed member of the EU, making Brexit an absolute priority in our public business, pushing for the unique position of Ireland to be recognised in negotiations and working to reform the EU so that it lives up to the principles upon which it was founded.

The long-term outcome of this referendum for Ireland will most likely depend on the relationship that Britain establishes with the EU and the terms of such a relationship. We must ensure that Ireland's interests are to the fore in any negotiations. Britain is our nearest neighbour and largest trading partner and the implications for trade, travel, tourism other facets of life will be affected. The uncertainty about borders is a huge concern for the whole island, with massive effects on trade and the agribusiness. It is crucial that the Border is central to the negotiations on the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union. We need political, economic and legal certainty as soon as possible.

What does the Taoiseach hope to achieve with the all-Ireland forum and how does he plan to make it as inclusive as possible, given the Democratic Unionist Party's reluctance to participate? Given that Brexit, when it eventually happens, could take many forms, how is the Taoiseach's Department planning for all of the possible scenarios? What is the Taoiseach doing to convey to other member states that Ireland's position on Brexit is unique and distinct and that there is a need for sensitivity, particularly in respect of Northern Ireland?

We have already seen the impact on the mushroom industry as a consequence of the referendum result, 90% of all mushrooms grown in Ireland are exported to the UK. What efforts are being made to protect industries that are particularly vulnerable as a result of the Brexit vote? What are our embassies doing to promote Ireland as a destination for business and to lessen our dependence on the EU market?

In respect of the budget, what are the Taoiseach's plans to ensure that it is weighted in favour of those who have suffered most during recent years, particularly lone parents, the elderly and households with children? Will he commit to restoring the Christmas bonus in the upcoming budget? Why are there no Senators on the Committee on Budgetary Oversight?