Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is safe to say that democracy involves a cost and that the running of our democratic institutions involves a cost. The Houses of the Oireachtas Commission does important work in terms of resourcing and staffing of the Houses and providing for the staff employed by the Members of the Houses. Those staff perform exceptional duties on our behalf. The are on the front line in my cases. The secretarial staff in particular are on the front line when it comes to deal with those who sometimes have things to get off their chest and will do so over the phone, by email or whatever. On occasion, the staff can suffer at the hands of certain individuals. In general, people are understanding of the role of Oireachtas Members and want to use the facilities, contacts and procedures that Members have to gain assistance. It is important to acknowledge the role of our secretarial staff and the staff the Members of the Lower House have as well. It is important to acknowledge that. Obviously, in light of the increase in the number of TDs after the general election, there will also be an increase in staff. As the Minister said, that is accounting for some of the additional budgeting required.

We also know there are always demands for additional committee work in these Houses. For example, there was the special committee on autism, for which our colleague Senator Carrigy did exceptional work as Chair. It has proven itself in terms of whatever costs might have incurred with that. The special committee on issues pertaining to the Traveller community is again an example of a committee requiring staffing that does important work as well.

We have increased demands related to information technology that has to be paid for and ongoing improvements on translation services that are required for Members who speak trí mheán na Gaeilge.

The Minister mentioned general election costs, Seanad election costs and additional costs relating to the EU Presidency.

This is an important Bill, not least because there are staff to be paid. Obviously, that is an important function. I do not think anyone would appreciate us finishing up in these Houses without passing this legislation for the staffing arrangements for the forthcoming three years. It is important to acknowledge that as well.

I acknowledge the work done by the staff of these Houses. There is the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission, on which both Houses are ably represented. Notwithstanding issues that arise from time to time, and I am sure others will highlight some of those, it is important we have the accountability necessary to ensure the proper running of these Houses. I commend the Bill.