Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

I join my colleagues in congratulating the former Senator, Alan Kelly, on his success in being elected to the European Parliament. We will all miss him. I congratulate all the other Senators who took part in last week's elections. They performed admirably and should be proud of their performances.

I would like the Leader to arrange a debate on three key aspects of the recent local elections. Senators have already spoken about those who were disenfranchised as a result of problems with the register of electors. On the day of the election, serious issues arose in Meath when political parties failed to take down posters near polling stations and continued to canvass in the vicinity of polling stations. The Minister should re-examine the guidelines issued to county managers to ensure all parties are aware of their requirements on the day of polling.

We should have a debate on the counting of votes. I speak today after spending three days attending the count for Meath County Council. Recounts were called, one of which I called, and I am very pleased with the result. For the first time since the 1960s we won four seats . However, spending three days counting local election votes is not tenable in this day and age. We should consider other ways-----