Seanad banking inquiry representation
Senator O’Brien asks the Leader to clarify the Government’s position on Seanad membership of the banking inquiry, arguing that Fianna Fáil deserves representation and that a Government place should be offered if Senator Barrett is nominated.
I am giving the Leader an opportunity, while the House is in session, to let us know what is the Government position in this regard. I have no difficulty with any of the three. If there is a move by the Government to support Senator Sean Barrett to serve on this committee, fair play, but I would ask why the Government did not see fit to support Deputy Peter Mathews in the other House. Should the Government want Senator Barrett-----
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I am sorry. This legislation was passed here by this House. It is important and relevant because this meeting is happening this evening. I will conclude now-----
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It will. All I am doing is asking that the Leader of the House-----
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I am asking that the Leader of the House would this afternoon let us know what is the Government position with regard to the selection of Members from Seanad Éireann for the banking inquiry. Should the Government wish to have an Independent Member, Senator Barrett, on the committee, I put it to the Leader that the Government should offer up its place on that committee. Fianna Fáil is the largest Opposition party in the Seanad and it deserves a role on that committee. I hope the Leader will clarify the position and will confirm to me that the Government members of the Committee of Selection will be supporting our nominee, Senator Marc MacSharry, at that meeting at 7 p.m. this evening.