Lessons to be learned from Westminster

SEANAD REPORT:UNLESS A programme for Seanad reform was introduced by the leader of the House, he should, like the Speaker of the House of Commons, consider his position, Dominic Hannigan (Lab) said.

There were lessons to be learned from resignation at Westminster. The speaker had clearly lost the confidence of the people because of the expenses issue. “This house is also in danger of losing the confidence not just of the people of Ireland, but also of politicians in the country.”

One Senator had said publicly that votes taken in the house were a waste of time – “a joke”. A Dáil candidate had said his own party colleagues should consider their positions and they should also consider shutting down the Seanad.

Joe O’Toole (Ind) said the house was under intense scrutiny. Criticisms, fair and unfair, had been made about the Seanad, concerning, among other things, the number of sitting days and participation in votes. While it would be a major mistake for Senators to respond in a defensive manner, he believed they should show a certain element of humility.

Seanad leader Donie Cassidy said the Minister for Environment was at a very advanced stage in making up his mind in relation to having meaningful proposals for Seanad reform brought before the Government and the House.

***

The Adoption Bill was passed. Earlier, Frances Fitzgerald (FG), complained that the Minister for Children had briefed The Irish Timeson problems he was encountering with the Vietnamese authorities before informing the House.

David Norris (Ind) said he did not think what the Minister had said to the newspaper was substantially more than he had already put on the record.