Mary White (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)

One aspect of reform that could be explored in establishing an electoral commission is the possibility, as outlined in recent political science literature, of permanent political boundaries for constituencies, with only the number of Deputies or councillors changing with shifting demographics. We in Carlow-Kilkenny are slightly confused because some parts of County Carlow are in County Wicklow for a general election and some parts of County Laois go into County Carlow, although we get them back for local elections.

It is not often that a Carlow local authority stars in a murder story, but Carlow stars in the last Inspector Morse novel written by Ted Dexter. In it, the ever gloomy Morse says to his sidekick, Lewis:

"Do you know why Carlow County Council did not get a reply from that guy?"

"No," says Lewis.

"Well," says Morse, "he's been dead for a while."

Ergo, we must keep the register up to date and Carlow serves as a reminder in that thriller. I welcome this Bill and I want the legislation to be progressed as speedily as possible. In an open, working democracy, this is good for Ireland, good for electoral reform and good for our constituencies.

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