Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

In the past the Local Authority Members Association, LAMA, made a number of applications to be included in the list of bodies eligible to nominate a person to go forward for election to the Seanad from the Administrative Panel, but its efforts in this regard were unsuccessful. I have no difficulty with the Bill in principle, but it is strange it has been brought forward by Fine Gael which wants to abolish the Seanad. The Minister of State, Deputy Finneran, clearly outlined his position on the matter and I am obliged to state I hold the same position. As stated, it is strange that a party which wants to abolish Seanad Éireann has brought forward this measure. I am completely opposed to the abolition of this House which is an important institution of State. I am extremely proud to be a Member of the Seanad and believe it has an important role to play. However, like all institutions, bodies, etc., it requires reorganisation from time to time. We will be debating a motion on that matter later in the day.