Fine Gael sets up 11 committees to appease TDs

FINE GAEL has set up 11 internal party committees to keep disgruntled backbenchers and senators busy, develop policies and potentially groom future ministers.

As part of a pre-election promise by Enda Kenny, the internal committees will help build stronger links between ministers’ offices and parliamentary party members.

Heads of the committees are to be decided in the coming weeks and the policy groups are expected to meet every fortnight.

Government chief whip Paul Keogh’s office confirmed the setting-up of the committees, which will shadow government departments and ministers.

The exceptions, though, will see one committee representing education and social protection together as well as one committee representing transport and community affairs. Justice and defence will also be the focus of one committee.

There will be no committee focusing on the Department of the Taoiseach.

In recent weeks, party leaders asked TDs and senators what areas they want to focus on or have experience in. Most committees held their first meetings last week in Leinster House buildings, with only the justice group due to convene for the first time this week.

Party insiders say the setting-up of the internal committees may appease TDs and senators disappointed by the expected reduction in Oireachtas Committee member numbers.

Mr Kenny will decide on the chairs of the 11 internal committees before the Houses of the Oireachtas break for the summer.

Committee members will not only discuss department issues and meet with ministers involved, but also hold discussions with semi-state bodies or groups relevant to a department. Said a party source: “It will lead to better communication between ministers and parliamentary party members. It will also give them more on-the-job experience and expertise than they have.”