John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

Again I ask the Leader for a debate on reform of the Seanad. The reason for asking for the debate is the inadequate suggestions made prior to this. It is for this Seanad to come forward with suggestions and that is why I have asked for a debate. It is no harm to remind ourselves because it was suggested in certain parts that it was a less than democratic method of election. Some people carried their election very heavily on their shoulders. Let us not forget that some 1.2 million people voted for us to be here in this manner. The system has worked exceptionally well.