Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

The proposal is appropriate for more than one reason. It is obviously correct that sectarian aspects of fundamental constitutional legislation be repealed. Senator Brian Hayes said the Bill of Rights relates to one tradition. It does mainly, but not exclusively. We would do well to compare notes with our American cousins in this regard. Both of us fought and won struggles for independence.

The Bill of Rights is one of the foundations of representative Government. There is a sharp distinction to be drawn between representative and democratic Government. As we know, in the 17th century, representative Government was confined to small elites. Nonetheless, what came out of that led eventually towards democratic Government. As individuals we have many ancestors and, arguably, among these are those who fought on both sides at the Battle of the Boyne.