Committees

Committees are central to the operations of the National Council for three reasons. Firstly, they allow for the detailed examination of complex matters, which is more easily done in small groups than an entire house. Secondly, they offer an opportunity for members to hear from citizens and experts on topics of national concern and to have these representations placed on the public record. Thirdly, they provide a means for members to probe into the details of policies and programmes, thereby developing an expertise in specific areas.

Members, therefore, devote a great deal of time and energy to committees.

Their main functions are:

• To examine Bills
• Review national long term policy documents presented to the House
• Recommend alternative policy options
• Consider Annual Reports and other reports and recommend measures to the government
• Scrutinize assurances, promises, undertakings, given by ministers from time to time
• Provide a forum for public debate on current issues.