Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not believe in shrinking the democratic space. This measure will lead to a huge loss on the democratic side. It is wrong to blame the Seanad for any lack of reform. It has repeatedly shown a willingness to engage with the reform process and the Minister of State was part of that process at one time. Every previous Government failed to address this matter. In 1979 we had a referendum to extend the franchise for the university seats. Every Government since has left that constitutional amendment in abeyance and failed to legislate for it. It would have been wonderful for graduates of our third level institutions who live in Ireland and abroad to have had a say in the composition of one of the Houses of Parliament. There will be far less accountability in the absence of the Seanad. The fact that approximately 600 amendments to legislation have been accepted in this House is testimony to the valuable work done in this Chamber.

I will not say the idea of bringing in outside experts is crazy, but it will increase costs and further reduce democratic accountability. As I have said, the referendum is being held too early. There is a danger that if this proposal is passed, very dedicated Members of this House will decide to quit in order to run in next year's local elections.