Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

He devised a system that ensures a working majority in this House, rightly so. We do not want to see this House rejecting legislation and precipitating a general election. That would not be healthy. The quality of appointed Senators since the Constitution was enacted in 1937 has been remarkably high. They have played a very important role in this House. It is a wonderful opportunity for those who have tremendous experience to be nominated rather than having to go through the selection and election process. It is an admirable approach.

I am sorry if I have been selective about the universities. Senators should remember that if we were to seek an amendment to the Constitution, the public would not be particularly interested in Seanad reform. Some might prefer abolition as it is easier to abolish things. The result of the 1979 referendum which approved an amendment to the Constitution should be honoured. I hope the university Senators understand that is the democratic right of the people. It would be impractical to review the 1937 Constitution to enact other reforms. We should be able to have reform within our institution under the Constitution. I do not recall distinguished speakers being brought to address the House when the Seanad was first formed. This is a recent innovation.

I express my deep respect for the Upper House of the Oireachtas of which I am proud to have served as a Member for a short period in 1992-93. I will endeavour to fulfil my role as a Member of the Seanad. Since its birth in 1937, the Seanad has played a vital role in our political system. I am loath to make any major changes to a system that is working very well.