When it is considered that the Constitution dates back to 1937, it must be acknowledged that its architects showed remarkable foresight and capacity for comprehensive thinking. The Minister rightly acknowledged that de Valera and his Government deserved great commendation for this. Unfortunately, partisan politics has to some extent been a motivation in deriding aspects of the Constitution which has stood the test of time. Almost 70 years later, citizens rely on its text to ensure and protect their rights in society and under the law.