Dáil reform and wind turbine legislation
Robert Troy criticises the absence of parliamentary questions during recess and presses for action on the wind turbines Bill; the Taoiseach discusses the energy issue and says recess arrangements may be considered, but gives no firm commitment.
In its programme for Government the Government gave a commitment on Dáil reform, stating that Ministers would answer parliamentary questions during periods of recess.
We are just back from our third period of recess and we still have no facility for raising important issues in our constituencies and nationally by way of parliamentary questions. Is this another commitment to Dáil reform that will lie in tatters? When will we see the facility for answering parliamentary questions during the recess period?
The Environment and Public Health (Wind Turbines) Bill 2012 was initiated by a Government backbencher, Deputy Penrose, and is supported by all his colleagues in my constituency. When will the Government be in a position to allocate time to debate this extremely important and contentious issue - the erection of wind turbines in the midlands - in the House?
Comment on this
Deputy Troy is well aware of the potential of the natural facility we have in terms of mean wind speeds in particular locations around the country, including many locations in the west. There is an issue of contention balanced against this potential source of energy and jobs for the future. I am sure the issue has been raised already under the Topical Issues debate. It can be debated at committees and the engagement of civic society is part of that. The matter can be raised by the Deputy's party Whip at a Whips' meeting, if that is appropriate.
I have had discussions and arguments with Deputies Martin and Adams about Dáil reform. I want to sit down with the leaders of the parties.
Comment on this
The Taoiseach has been saying that for two years. He has not sat down with anybody.
Comment on this
Deputy Troy is talking about Ministers being able to provide answers to questions during recess periods. This has never happened before. I have ideas about how it might happen now, but this country effectively closes down in August in delivering elements of the public service in this respect. I am quite sure that the leader of the Deputy's party will raise it with me when I have the chance to talk to him.
Comment on this
Is the Taoiseach going to commit to his own programme for Government?