FG proposes major Dáil reforms
Fine Gael is calling for opposition party consensus on how to change the way the Dáil operates.
The main opposition party is outlining its 10 priorities for immediate reform, saying parliament needs to be more accountable and relevant.
Fine Gael says the ineffectiveness of the Oireachtas is breeding cynicism about politics and politicians in the public.
They are putting 10 proposals forward to tackling the problem.
First on the list is a 30% increase in the amount of hours the Dáil is in session.
The party also want Dáil committees to have more powers to make Ministers accountable.
TDs should be able to raise topical issues before regular debates, and they want to be able to send written questions to Ministers even when the Dáil is in recess.
Fine Gael want the Taoiseach to spend more time in the Dáil.
Presently his week ends at lunchtime on Wednesday – the opposition think he should attend the Order of Business on Thursdays too.
