Mary Henry (Independent)

I have been advised by Senator White that I should not be repetitive. I was here for most of the debate as I was in the Chair. It is worthwhile pointing out that we can watch the debate on the monitors in our offices. That gives us the opportunity to shout abuse at whoever is speaking if we do not agree with what they are saying.

It is worth repeating the few points which have been made about scripts. The Standing Orders of both Houses state that Members should not speak from scripts. It was delightful to hear everyone speaking today without scripts. Scripts are a bore because I often think of better things I should have included. When I deviate from them, I usually cannot find my place again. It is better not to have them.

There was great concentration on the university Senators, who everyone agreed are a delightful bunch. We have made a tremendous contribution to the House. The franchise should be extended, as provided for in the 1979 referendum, to all third level graduates. However, one problem is that if constituencies get too big, it will be impossible for Independents to service them and they could be taken over by the political parties. That would be a pity.

Senator O'Toole's comments about allowing members of the nominating bodies to elect some of those on the panels are worth considering. That would not be difficult to do. Senator Ó Murchú, who spoke in Irish, said he was optimistic about the fact that we would introduce some reform. My Irish is not great but that is what I understood him to say. However, I am not quite as optimistic. Nevertheless, it is good to have a good discussion on the subject.