Mr. Thomas McCann:

I will try to answer in a word. The word would be "Yes". The Seanad should reflect all sections of society. Many groups are represented by numerous voices but, unfortunately, Travellers, who have been a major part of our society since the foundation of the State and long before that, are not. Their voice is absent in the House. Having a seat in the Seanad for Travellers would begin to make a change. I would be careful about expecting too much from one person in the political system. However, we have seen at times that the voice of an individual is very important. Tony Gregory, for example, was very influential on behalf of the community in the north inner city and other communities. He is an example of a single voice that made a difference.