Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

It has a certain integrity of principle in that 43 Members are elected by the people whom the people elect. The French have the exact same system of Senators being elected by councillors and representatives of municipal authorities, although the electorate is much larger numerically. It also provides a genuine democratic election to the extent that very few people are guaranteed election.

It is a toughly fought election and there is no such thing as a safe seat, although some people manage their affairs so well they make it look as if they are safe, but we know that is not the reality. There is genuine excitement and uncertainty involved in the process. Counting 987 votes takes three times as long as counting 60,000 votes in a constituency.

The nominating bodies provide an input by various groups but I accept this should have been updated. That said, I have an open mind. On a personal level, I am prepared to take my chances with whatever electoral system other people in their wisdom may decide upon, whether in regard to this House or if opportunity offers, elsewhere.

I would not overly knock the existing system which has served us well. I have reservations about a list system and how much it would add to legitimacy. One has to ask who will compose the list and if there will be any democratic input into that. These are matters for further debate and consideration.

I am also concerned about mid-term elections. These are not always the best of news for Governments, regardless of who holds power at a particular time.