Mary White (Fianna Fail)

I do not identify with what Senator Dardis said. I found it straightforward once I knew what it was about. I also disagree with his view on emigrants. He said that, because of what Mr. Donlon said, he would re-examine the issue. Why on earth, just because a previous ambassador to the United States said it is not that easy, would one revise one's opinion on emigrants voting in Senate elections? I found that amazing. All that is required is a political initiative rather than a bureaucratic, departmental one. If politicians agree the rules should be changed, emigrants should vote in the Seanad election. It is not for him to decide that it cannot be done from an administrative point of view. I found his contribution very naive.

I am very thankful to Senator Kitt for sharing time. No Progressive Democrats Senator made a written submission. I find that amazing too. Deputy Fiona O'Malley made a submission, but no Progressive Democrats Senator made a written submission for the report. Senator McHugh was the only Fine Gael Senator to make one, though his party made a submission. If people could make the effort, it would be worth doing. We were all rushing at the time, and it was a burden to do it, but it is important.