David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 510: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the targets he has set in relation to implementing Oireachtas reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3854/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The Programme for Government contains a commitment to determine the extent of cross-party agreement on the recommendations of the April 2004 Report on Seanad Reform by the Seanad Sub-Committee on Seanad Reform, and to advance proposals for implementation. The Report sets out comprehensive recommendations for further consideration and action concerning the composition, functions and future role of Seanad Éireann.

I consider that Seanad reform should be advanced on the basis of an All-Party, consensus approach, insofar as possible. I have written to each of the Party Leaders recently, asking for their nominations to an All-Party Group, with a view to an early meeting.