John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

I will address some of the other issues raised by the Senator. Part of the idea is that the commission would deal with all matters relating to elections. I hope we can learn lessons from Northern Ireland and other countries. It should be possible to get an accurate electoral register. The commission can do this job.

As a serving Deputy I am aware there is an inconsistency now between the various local authorities and how they collect and present the data. Some of them do not properly record data on computer. Most deputies would like to get the information in a consolidated form to use it for their own records. An electoral commission would be of invaluable benefit to deputies and to the wider public. As other Senators wish to contribute I will take further questions at the end of the debate.