Fiach MacConghail (Independent)

I propose an amendment to the Order of Business, namely, that a debate take place on Standing Order 18 to reflect the divergent views, not only among our group, but among Senators on the matter. That would be healthy.

I wholeheartedly welcome the soundings emanating from the Cabinet on the establishment of a constitutional convention particularly if the report that the involvement of citizens in the deliberation of political reform of the Republic is correct. It would be a good day if, with elected representatives, citizens had an opportunity to participate in a decision-making process which will not only have a profound impact on the future but in turn, result in increased political participation.

As the House may be aware I was involved in a non-party political initiative last year, We the Citizens, which proved conclusively that citizens' assemblies can and will work here. For us to change the political culture of the Republic, citizens need to be involved in a greater and more imaginative way in a participatory democracy. Ireland has changed and citizens are seeking new ways to engage in the civic and democratic life of their communities and country. That was the message we heard as we travelled through Ireland during summer 2011. We found that a great deal of common sense is generated when people get together to work things out. People came together at our events not because of vested interests or political persuasion but as individual citizens willing and ready to contribute to the future of the Republic.