Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

Whatever about the separation of powers, power under the Constitution ultimately rests with the people. The Houses have a duty to protect that power and to ensure the constitutionality of legislation. I have argued that the legislation is unconstitutional and we should not pass such legislation. Whatever about the President referring the Bill to the Supreme Court, the issue has been raised and I hope she does do so because it relates to the fundamental power of the people. Our mandate comes from the people and it is for them to decide who they elect. When they elect a councillor who is subsequently elected to the Dáil, it is wrong to take away that mandate through legislation of this nature.