The skill of hastening slowly has become part of the so-called “new politics”. There has been much talk about priorities and a partnership approach, but very little action. In the 15 weeks since February’s general election, not a single new Bill has reached the statute books and no change is expected before the Dáil rises for the summer recess. Even allowing for a start-up date in May, this minority Government will be able to claim little progress by the time its first 100 days are up.
The Cabinet approved the preparation of 11 new Bills this week as part of its first legislative programme. Measures in response to criminal activity and court decisions are included as well as a suspension of water charges for nine months and the establishment of an external advisory body to advise on what might be done.
The powers of the IBRC Commission are to be enhanced; schools admissions policies regulated and the status of protected raised bogs to be changed. The programme is a work in progress, however, with an aspiration to publish the Bills “over the next few months”.
That will require pre-legislative scrutiny by Dáil and Oireachtas committees in what Government chief whip Regina Doherty described as "a partnership" between the Executive and Parliament.
Fourteen pieces of legislation are before the Dáil, 12 of which fell with the last government and were reinstated. They consist mainly of worthy, housekeeping Bills that are unlikely to generate serious political disagreement. Conflict is, however, expected at Dáil committees during pre-legislative discussions on water charges and the terms of reference of an advisory committee.
The Government would hope for greater understanding concerning its proposal to re-designate certain raised midland bogs in response to legal action by the EU.
That way, it might avoid EU financial penalties for damaging natural heritage areas while offering comfort to Independent TD and turf contractor Michael Fitzmaurice. A continuing focus on water charges and raised bogs reflects the instability of Government.