Dáil reform - Measures do not go far enough

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste unveiled their Dáil reform plans yesterday. Henceforth, as a preliminary to the drafting legislation, the public will be allowed a say. Chairmen of committees will be able to call interested parties and recognised authorities in any field to give their views on the need for legislation.

This will “bring civil society, interest groups and experts into the legislative process at an early stage”, the Taoisach insisted. But in reality the changes are largely cosmetic.

Ministers could always have sought such information confidentially in the past. The only difference now is that the advice will be given publicly. Thus it could take on the appearance that these people are being invited to share in the responsibility for drafting new legislation.