Rónán Mullen (Independent)

-----for rushing like lemmings down the path of the proposal following the then Leader of the Opposition, Deputy Kenny's, snatch for this populist idea. It is clear that the way we should be going is rather than a hasty, simplistic proposal to the people which would almost certainly be passed given the general discontent about politics and politicians, we should engage in a staged consultation with the people. I do not know whether it is proposed that this would happen as part of the proposed constitutional convention or whether a separate track of preparation will take place for the referendum on the Seanad. Perhaps the Leader might indicate to us what are the Government's intentions in that regard because there seems to be a degree of confusion about it.

I have proposed in the past and others have supported the idea that we should opt for a preferendum. On an issue as important as this when, in effect, we are going to shape our political institutions for the next generation, it seems appropriate to put to the people a number of options for their consideration. A debate that would lead up to such a decision by the people in a preferendum of their preferred options could in theory take place at the same time as the presidential election. Arguably, it would be better than the referendum proposal that is on offer in conjunction with the presidential election. It would be appropriate to put a number of possibilities to the people, including the option of a reformed Seanad or various possibilities for a reformed Seanad and political system in addition to the straight option of abolition or retaining the status quo. It would be good to ascertain people's preferences at that point.