The first item on the agenda is the election of a Chairman. I invite nominations for the position of Chairman.
Election of Chairman.
Clerk to the Sub-Committee
I am deeply honoured to nominate Deputy Lucinda Creighton who served with distinction on the very important Sub-Committee on Ireland's Future in the European Union. Senator Donohoe chaired that sub-committee which carried out much research and detailed work which was the basis for the ratification of the Lisbon treaty. This special sub-committee must produce an interim report by the end of May on the review of the role of the Oireachtas in European affairs. It is important that we have a decisive Chairman and I believe Deputy Creighton will bring this process to a successful conclusion. The terms of reference for the sub-committee are very detailed. I am privileged to nominate her to this important role and wish her well in her appointment.
I second the nomination of Deputy Creighton.
Clerk to the Sub-Committee
Are there any other nominations?
No. I commend, recommend and congratulate Deputy Creighton.
Clerk to the Sub-Committee
As there are no other nominations I deem Deputy Lucinda Creighton to be elected as Chairman of the sub-committee. I call on the Deputy to take the Chair.
Deputy Lucinda Creighton took the Chair.
I thank members, particularly Deputy Perry for his kind remarks in nominating me. I am looking forward to working with each member to undertake what is going to be a very important review of the operation of the interim arrangements in both Houses and conducting a detailed consultation process on the future role of the Oireachtas in European affairs.
The Lisbon treaty has significantly changed the national parliaments' relationship with Europe, as members will be aware. National parliaments have been given a range of new powers and entitlements which enable them to contribute actively to the good functioning of the Union and it is vitally important that these new powers and entitlements are effectively implemented at EU level and by each national parliament if the EU is to become more transparent, accountable and ultimately more democratic, which is what we all aspire to.
It is clear to both Oireachtas committees dealing with European affairs that the way the Houses of the Oireachtas deal with EU matters needs to be significantly examined and revised in light of the Lisbon treaty, as well as the recommendations of the Sub-Committee on Ireland's Future in the European Union which reported in November 2008. I commend Senator Donohoe on the excellent manner in which he chaired that sub-committee. I hope I can aspire to achieving similar glory in my position on this sub-committee.
We have an obligation to make the fullest use of these opportunities to contribute to enhancing democratic accountability within the European Union and bringing the EU closer to its citizens. That is something which is close to my heart and which I value as a priority. I am sure the same applies to all members. We have a very short timeframe for our work so it will require dedication and time commitment to the work of the sub-committee over the coming two months. I know all members are committed to doing that as am I. I thank members and appreciate their support. I look forward to working with them in the coming weeks.
The sub-committee went into private session at 2.10 p.m. and adjourned at 2.20 p.m. until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, 31 March 2010.