Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to speak on the Electoral (Amendment)(Dáil Constituencies) Bill 2012. I know it is trendy and popular to have a go at Deputies, or to suggest reducing the number of Members of the Dáil or closing down the Seanad. However, I wish to point out the dangers of this type of cynicism as a potential threat to real democracy, creating a disconnect from the citizens of the State. I want to build a real republic that is inclusive and democratic. I want reform, inclusion and more democracy, not less. The Bill before us will give us less, which is my major concern. It is not reform, as some Deputies have said, but a cost-cutting exercise. I commend the Deputies on the far side of the House, particularly the newer ones, on some of their bright new ideas and their urgent call for change and reform.

One good aspect of the Bill is the name of the new constituency of Dublin Bay North. It is a good name because of the great amenity that is Dublin Bay. At this point I pay tribute to the late great Sean Dublin Bay Loftus, who represented my constituency in the past. I am sure he would be delighted to see the new constituency named Dublin Bay North. However, that is also a wake-up call for all of us to ensure we protect this beautiful amenity which spreads right across our city and which belongs not only to the people of Dublin Bay North but also to the people of Dublin and the people of Ireland.

The Bill proposes to implement the recommendations of the 2012 Constituency Commission report, which means in reality reducing the number of Deputies from 166 to 158, reducing the number of Dáil constituencies from 43 to 40 and redrawing many constituency boundaries. That is the essence of the legislation. At this point I wish to welcome those from Howth, Donaghmede, Clonshaugh, Darndale, Baldoyle, Sutton and the residents of Priory Hall into the new Dublin Bay North constituency. I give a commitment that I will do my best to represent the interests of these people, particularly those in the newer areas. However, I will also continue look after the people of Marino, Clontarf, Donnycarney, Artane and Beaumont.

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