David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am sure I will fit neatly as well; we can make it a threesome. I welcome section 1, as does everyone. I am very glad that tribute has been paid to Jillian Godsil who was a student of mine in Trinity. If anybody deserves a second chance and if anybody deserves a chance to run, this woman does. She is very brave and courageous and I wish her well. I am very glad that this is being put through quickly by means of a motion for early signature meaning that these people will be allowed to stand for election.

I thank the Minister for very clearly opening up the discussion on the question of a plebiscite by way of his reply to Senator Mac Conghail.

I would welcome a strong mayor in Dublin with real power, as is the case in London. At the moment, a plebiscite would be a slam dunk and a foregone conclusion. If the people were given the opportunity, there is no question they would go for it. How democratic is it? We are talking about the city, but Fingal, for example, is not part of the city. It is a rural area and they have special interests and special problems. They had a very good special programme of bringing business incentives into the area-----