Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

Now and again, a Chathaoirligh, but I am not alone in doing so.

I welcome the Bill which is less an electoral reform measure than a contribution to penal reform. There is value in prisoners being able, in so far as it is possible and practicable to do so, to exercise their civic rights. If anything, they might have a greater propensity to vote than the general population to the extent that they might not have so many pressing alternative demands on their time. The act of voting might make them reflect on the stake they have in society. I welcome the Bill from that point of view.

Some 25 years ago prisoners, albeit outside this jurisdiction, were elected to the other House. It is strange that people can be elected to the Dáil from prison, yet they cannot vote.

Senator Bannon gave me the rare privilege of hearing the quorum bell. However, when my party is challenged, we present ourselves in strength and depth. I note the Senator did not call for a vote.