Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I also pay tribute to Jim Kelly. When I first came to the House, he was very nice and helpful in showing me the layout and I wish him every happiness in his retirement.

I support Senator Tuffy's proposal that we maintain strong links with local government. Now that the dual mandate has been abolished, it is extremely important that those links are maintained. I feel very strongly that we should not lose our links with the grass roots. One does not get the feel of being in touch with the real public in either of the Chambers here. It is very important that we talk to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government so that sections are introduced about maintaining links in that regard with the Seanad. The councillors are our electorate, something we should never forget.

I reinforce what Senator Dardis said. As the Government spokesperson on European affairs, it is timely that the Minister of State, Deputy Roche, is invited to give us an update on the progress report on the draft constitution. This is a very important time in Europe's history and for Ireland too, particularly since we will be moving into the Presidency in a few months. It is very important that we connect with the public and let them know in simple terms what is going on. There is no place better than this Chamber to develop that role. It should also be part of the reform of the Seanad.