Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 30 June 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht

Electoral Commission in Ireland: Discussion (Resumed)

2:15 pm

Photo of Robert DowdsRobert Dowds (Dublin Mid West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Dr. Weeks made a very persuasive case for an electoral commission, and I agree with pretty much all of what he said except for one thing - namely, even larger multi-seat constituencies. I am not a fan of our electoral system. It brings out the worst in us in many ways. A politician's biggest opponent can be somebody from his or her own party. It does not encourage people to focus on the national interest to the extent that they should, but that is another day's work. I would prefer something akin to the German system where there is a list and a constituency election, but that will not happen in my lifetime.

I am bit confused about some of what has been said. The largest problem that has emerged from this discussion is the construction of the electoral register. What is the best way to construct the electoral register so that it is fair, accurate and up to date at all times?

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