Seanad reform debate
The Leader undertakes to arrange a further Seanad reform debate before the recess, while acknowledging uncertainty about the Government’s position on the draft Bill.
Senator Feargal Quinn raised the issue of Seanad reform, on which we had a short debate recently. At the time I indicated that I would arrange a further debate on the matter and provide for every Senator who wished to contribute to have ten minutes speaking time. I hope to arrange this debate before the recess to allow everyone to comment on the proposals made. I am not aware of the Government's stance on the draft Bill. I will, however, try to arrange the debate in the next couple of weeks. I am sure the authors of the report will welcome the comments of Senators on it as we have had sufficient time to digest its contents. Those Senators who disagree with its contents will be able to voice their reservations in the debate.