Vol. 414 No. 5
35 Mr. Barry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will ensure, in view of the increased importance of European matters, that the legislation to extend the powers of the Joint Committee on Secondary Legislation of the European Community will be introduced as soon as possible; and if he will agree to the implementation of the suggestions contained in report number 7 of that Committee in the meantime.
The Joint Committee on the Secondary Legislation of the European Communities were established by Resolution of the Dáil and of Seanad Éireann in July 1973. As the Joint Committee were established by Resolution the name, composition and mandate of the Committee can be changed or amended by way of Resolution of both Houses.
However, the Joint Committee have functions under section 1 (b) of the European Communities Act, 1973 and legislation may be required to take account of an alteration in their functions. This matter is presently being examined.
As far as the second part of the Deputy's question is concerned, the Deputy will be aware that the Taoiseach indicated in the Dáil on 14 November that he could not see any objection to the committee exercising new functions in advance of legislation. As the committee carry out functions that are provided for by statute it is desirable that we complete the consideration of what new powers and functions the joint committee may have and the legislative implications before proceeding further.
