Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

It is not that long since David Trimble was in the Vanguard Party which, given what Vanguard stood for at that time, shows the transformation in thinking that has occurred there. We now have Sinn Féin and the DUP, and everyone would wish them well. It is difficult for both those parties which will have to bring with them trenchant supporters who are committed to past ideologies. It is not easy to shift such positions. It is worthwhile investing the time in order to see that under the current leadership of both parties, this transformation will take place. That will make an agreement sustainable to a degree that might not otherwise be the case.

As regards Seanad reform, I do not agree with those who are suggesting that there should be an additional two Members from Northern Ireland. That will not change or effect any transformation in thinking anywhere. I also do not agree with the Seanad report that suggested an extra five Members from the North. The figure should be in the order of eight to ten but more probably ten. I say that having spoken to elected members of the UUP and the DUP. Surprisingly, they have conceded to me that they would take up such positions but only on the basis that there were sufficient numbers for them to be able to do so. In other words, that they would not be isolated within their own community. That point should be borne in mind. It is interesting that Senator Norris and others often object to that proposal on constitutional grounds. A partitionist mentality has evolved here, which sometimes has parallels with the partitionist mentality within the Unionist community. It is important for us to challenge that.