Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)

First, for the purpose of clarity, I wish to categorically state I never had imperialist masters. While there may have been occupiers in this country, they certainly were not my masters. I am disappointed with the Minister's description of them as such.

Deputy Gilmore has just commented on the issue of proportionality but I am disappointed that the person to whom I directed my question, namely, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, did not deal with the issue. Proportionality is central to the argument I am making.

I have never challenged the independence of the commission. My amendment attempts to put terms of reference in place which will broaden the scope of the commission and that issue was not adequately addressed by the Minister's comments either.

As I am aware that we are pressed for time and that other Deputies wish to contribute to the debate, I will ask only one question of the Minister. In the event that the census is held next year, the results are published in January 2007 but the general election is not held until May 2007, will the Minister reappoint the constituency commission in the intervening months? At that point, the scenario referred to by Deputy Gilmore may be clear and it may be obvious that proportionality is not in place. What would happen in that event?

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