Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Cummins for introducing the Bill. Perhaps his actions might focus minds on how we might bring about reform of the Seanad. We have been down this road so many times and, in such circumstances, it is absolutely appalling that we are discussing the matter again. When I spoke at the annual conference of LAMA on this matter, I stated I would support the Bill. I do support it and thank Senator Cummins for bringing it forward. However, I am sure I will be bound by the party whip in respect of it. As a result, I feel I am speaking out of both sides of my mouth.

The Bill will do one thing, namely, it will speed up the process of reform. We have no choice but to reform the House. I am glad Senator O'Toole has tabled a Private Members motion on the matter and that we will be in a position later to discuss how we might move forward. Since I became a Member in 1993, we have been discussing reforming the Seanad and how best we might bring about such reform. All the Bill before the House would require of us is to include LAMA as one of the nominating bodies. The Association of City and County Councils is already included as such a body and the same privilege should be afforded to LAMA.

I am aware of the work done by LAMA. I attend all of its conferences and support it in everything it is doing. It does great work in representing councillors, seeking greater power for them and giving them a platform to expound and expand on their ideas. It is a pity, therefore, that I cannot support Senator Cummins on the Bill. However, I am with him. If I can assist him in progressing the matter - with the exception of voting in favour of the Bill - I will do so. All I can say to him is, "Well done and keep up the good work." I will continue to support his efforts and ensure the matter is discussed.

I would welcome it if we could engage in some reform prior to the next general election. The system governing how people are nominated for election to the Seanad is wrong. We cannot remove from councillors the power they possess in this regard. God knows their powers have been eroded to a substantial degree. They do not tend to come up short with regard to the people they nominate for election to the House. It has been proven time and again that county councils are able to judge who they want to represent them in the Seanad. It is one area to which we must stick. The Association of City and County Councils, the Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland and LAMA should be part of the group of nominating bodies as they push for councils, have a feel for us as Senators and understand what we are at because we all came from the same ship. We were councillors and reflect their views. I want to continue with that system.

I will do my best for the Senator behind the scenes. I feel awful standing here today. I support him in principle and I wish I could vote in favour of the Bill but, unfortunately, I cannot.