There are strong indications that Ireland may obtain the agriculture commissionership at European level. This would be of huge benefit to the country.

Not on the Order of Business, thank you.

The Parliamentary Scrutiny of Appointments (European Commission) Bill 2014, which is on the Order Paper in the Seanad, seeks to provide for parliamentary scrutiny of the Government's proposed candidate for the European Commission position. MEPs from all over Europe will have an opportunity to question the Irish nominee for that position, but Members of the Dáil will not have the same opportunity. Can the Taoiseach facilitate the enactment of the Bill in question in advance of the appointment of the Irish Commissioner, or at least give an indication that the House will have an opportunity question the Government nominee in advance of the parliamentary scrutiny that will take place at European level?

I would not believe the comments that have been made about "strong indications" with regard to this commissionership or that commissionership. It is important for the EU to have a college of Commissioners who are prepared to listen to the message of people from all over Europe and make decisions in the interests of the EU and of growth, stability and the creation of jobs.

It seems that the Government is prepared for failure.

As Deputy Naughten knows from his long experience, it is a matter for the Seanad to define its own business.

Can we have a discussion on the appointment?

I am here every week.