9 Samh 2020, 02:23
Seanad Éireann has adopted a new Standing Order which provides for special debates on motions tabled by panel and university Senators. The adoption of the Standing Order is based on one of the recommendations of the 2018 Report on Seanad Reform, with the establishment of Panel Forums. The Standing Order provides for time to be allocated for debate on a motion tabled by a member elected to a panel and for priority during the debate to be given to Senators elected to the relevant panel. The motion to be debated is selected by the Cathaoirleach, who today selected the first topic to be discussed as ““Seanad Eireann seeks action on the elimination of the gender pay gap” which was submitted by the Labour Panel.
Speaking as the initiative was announced today, the Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann Senator Mark Daly said,
“Since my election as Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, I have been working with Senators to implement new reforms. I am confident that the forums announced today will provide Senators with the opportunity to engage in more detailed discussions with their nominating bodies. This will provide greater and more focused engagement with a broad spectrum of Irish society. These bodies reflect the diversity of our country and contribute so much to the civic, social, commercial and intellectual life of the State.
This ongoing dialogue with Seanad members will ensure that the way we do our work is informed and invigorated by the experience and insights that these bodies can offer.
Our first discussion under this new reform will be on the important issue of the gender pay gap. This is an issue of deep relevance to many people in Irish society and I hope that our dialogue will inform the general public debate on this issue”.
Fiosrúcháin ó na meáin
Verona Ní Bhroinn,
Tithe an Oireachtais,
Oifigeach Cumarsáide,
Teach Laighean,
Baile Átha Cliath 2
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