Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

While the details may be well advanced and the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs has met We the Citizens, no one has met Members of this House who should be fundamental to any reconsideration of our Constitution. Why are such fundamental issues being discussed without any consultation with Members? It is unacceptable and wrong. There should be more proactive engagement with Members. Will the Taoiseach give a commitment that he will get the Chief Whip to organise effective consultations with Members on this convention?

Which Minister will be accountable to the House for the work of the convention? If it is to be truly democratic, as any reconsideration of the Constitution on such a wide basis should be, those directly elected by the people should be the first to be consulted.

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