Equality is a fundamental issue for Ireland and we have given considerable thought to ways in which the democratic legitimacy and authority of the President of the Commission – and, thus, of the Commission itself – could be enhanced. Some members of the Convention favour the current system of selection, a process in which member states, through the European Council, play the dominant role. However, there is also strong support for election by the European Parliament. While this view is most enthusiastically put forward by MEPs, it is also strongly supported by a number of member states. Many Senators will be aware that Deputy John Bruton has put forward a paper on the direct election of the President. His contribution is creative and innovative, but it seems to be ahead of its time.