Ossian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator McDowell for making the ingenious connection between the historic function of the Appropriation Acts in a monarchic parliament, the importance of being able to hold the Executive to account, the functions of the Appropriation Acts in that regard, and how this relates to Covid-19 oversight in our current age. During the interregnum, we had a vacuum of committees and oversight facilities. Something ad hoc was constructed in a hurry. It was much better than nothing. It meant that there was a place. A system was set up whereby Ministers could be questioned, although it was outside the normal procedures. I think it worked. Deputy McNamara was elected as Chairman of that Covid-19 committee. I nominated him. I felt that he was challenging. He certainly acted as an independent Chair. I praise him for the work that he did on that. Senator McDowell threatened guerrilla action if he does not get some changes. He is welcome-----