Taoiseach and Government Ministers Must Be Accountable to Oireachtas on Key EU Decisions

A report published today by a Sub-Committee of European Affairs and European Scrutiny Committees, chaired by Lucinda Creighton TD makes a series of recommendations which would overhaul the current system of interaction between the Houses of the Oireachtas and the EU.

Click here to open the report.

In total, the report makes twenty-eight recommendations which aim to address the disconnect which exists between Oireachtas business and the EU and advises how best to exploit the new powers granted to the Oireachtas under the Lisbon Treaty

Among its proposals is a requirement that in future, Ministers must attend the relevant Oireachtas Committee to explain their decisions and get input from TDs and Senators prior to their attendance an upcoming EU Council meetings. It also suggests that the Taoiseach should answer questions in the Dáil in advance of EU Summit meetings and not after as is the current practice.

Sub-Committee Chairperson, Lucinda Creighton TD said:

“The current system whereby the majority Government Ministers do not account to the Oireachtas on decisions they take on behalf of Ireland at EU meetings is highly undemocratic. It also feeds into this notion of a “democratic deficit” existing between Ireland and the EU. (more…)

Irish MEPs, Mr. Seán Kelly, Ms. Mairead McGuinness, Ms. Nessa Childers , Mr. Joe Higgins and Mr. Alan Kelly appeared before the sub-committee

Video of the meeting of the 25th May, is available by clicking here:

Debate on Terms of reference of the review of the interim arrangements in the Houses of the Oireachtas implementing the powers conferred by the European Union Act 2009

In attendance:

Micheál Martin, T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs

Lucinda Creighton TD: I am delighted to welcome the former EU ambassador, Mr. John Bruton, and Mr. Alan Dukes. Both men were formerly Members of these Houses and Ministers. They are very welcome and we are pleased to have them in attendance. I invite Mr. Dukes to address the committee first, followed by Mr. Bruton and then we will take questions.

Mr. Alan Dukes: Go raibh maith agat. I read with considerable attention the report which is being prepared. I understand the Chairman would like me and Mr. Bruton to give our views on how we feel the committee might carry out its role of investigation and assessment of European legislation.

I do not believe there is anything to add to the report in regard to the matters contained therein but I wish to add a couple of general remarks on the basis of having experience in dealing with this legislation at various levels. (more…)

Debate on Terms of reference of the review of the interim arrangements in the Houses of the Oireachtas implementing the powers conferred by the European Union Act 2009

In attendance:

Mr. Alan Dukes

Mr. John Bruton