All in the line of duty

I REFER to Jason FitzHarris's letter ('TDs and MPs: how they rate, Irish Examiner, February 1). Dáil Eireann in plenary session did indeed adjourn from December 17, 2005 to January 25, 2006.

However, I find it somewhat surprising that Mr FitzHarris failed to mention the work of the many Oireachtas committees which sit throughout the year with the exception of August.

To say that a TD is not working when the Dáil is not in plenary session is incorrect.

Discerning readers will know that deputies are constitutionally obliged to function both as legislators and public representatives and, as such, must divide their time between their constituencies and Leinster House.

Verona Ní Bhroinn

PRO

Houses of the Oireachtas

Leinster House

Dublin 2