Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

It has two men overboard so far, but it need not panic.

Politics needs fresh energy. When I saw the new Deputies come in here, I thought they brought a new energy to the House. That is very important for here and for any presidential campaign. I strongly welcome the provision for five years. There should be a big clean-out after which we can get on with the job.

Another amendment reduces the number of Oireachtas signatures required from 20 to ten, which provides for a more democratic aspect to the presidency. The figure of 20 was a bit high for some of those involved in the recent campaign. Some of us were ducking in and out on different issues, but we found that the threshold of 20 Members was very high.

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