Michael McCarthy (Labour)

Like Senator Bannon, I have a difficulty with regard to the service Members of the Oireachtas, who were former members of local authorities, will receive once the dual mandate has been abolished. I have raised this issue, which could present problems in future, on every Stage of the Bill.

I support the call for the abolition of the dual mandate to be applied in a broader context rather than confining it to Members of the Oireachtas serving on local authorities. Members who stand in European elections should also resign their Oireachtas seats if elected.