Historically, Senators have no local constituency. Their constituency is the whole of Ireland and their function is to represent their "constituents" on a countrywide basis, inclusive of national and local matters. The ending of membership of both local authorities and the Seanad is nothing short of the choking of the oxygen supply to local areas. Far from double jobbing, Members do not get paid for sitting on councils. They see the dual role as the perfect marriage of local and national representation, which benefits the entire population. Dual membership provides a national platform for all Senators who wish to raise matters of local concern at national level, through motions, Private Members' Business, the Order of Business and so on. There is no better way to work than being a member of a local authority and having a strong electoral connection with local democracy. It greatly enhances the image of the Seanad and underpins its very effective community representation role. More importantly, it provides access to a national platform for the most marginalised community groups in the State. It is essential to keep in close contact with our citizens on the many issues which affect them and their communities.