From discussions with many unionist councillors and Members of the Northern Ireland Assembly, I am aware that for obvious political reasons they would be reluctant to expose themselves to joining the Seanad as a single unionist representative or with just one or two other members of their community. I am reasonably confident, however, that if there were sufficient numbers from the unionist tradition, say four or five, we would be successful. All of that is essential to the maturing of politics on the island as a whole. While I would obviously prefer some reciprocity in this regard, I would be inclined to facilitate the election of a certain number of Senators from Northern Ireland – perhaps eight – as of right, irrespective of whether a reciprocal arrangement was introduced in the Assembly. They have a contribution to make.