Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Go raibh maith agat, a Chathaorlaigh. I thank everybody who came in today. I thank them for giving us their time and for making their submissions. I also thank everyone who sent in a submission.

There were more than 100. This work that the Seanad is doing is vital. I did not think too much about it until I was sitting here this morning listening to the young people. I knew it would be good, but listening to the witnesses before us now as well as the young people earlier has been a wonderful experience. All I want is to hear everyone's voice and what people's opinions are. We all want that. The Chairman has driven this process. We only do four sessions. Unfortunately, we did not get to hear everyone's submission, which I would have loved. Perhaps we should consider having an ongoing Seanad Public Consultation Committee so that we can hear as many voices as we can.

I am sorry that I missed some of the presentations, but I had to step out. I am not sure if I am allowed to ask questions, but I wanted to ask Ms DeSouza about her idea concerning having more unionist voices in the Chamber. That would be vital. What would she envision the potential benefits and pitfalls of that being? I will look back on the presentations when I get home today.