Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

Despite promises about profound political reform, the Government has introduced a constitutional convention that is far too narrow in scope, flawed in composition and limited in resources. Even more concerning is the fact that the Government has not accepted responsibility to bring proposals from the convention directly to the people via a referendum. Instead, implementation of the recommendations will be through a report on them by the relevant Minister to the Government, subsequent to which the Government will decide on whether to hold a referendum. Smokescreen reform will only deepen public cynicism about politics.

I thank Senator Norris for his insight into what it was like to be an Independent seeking presidential election and the ordeal such people need to go through from obtaining nominations to securing funding, publicity, etc. in a limited period. This must be examined and reasonable time must be given to Independents to seek nomination.

While I support the right of the people to nominate candidates, the number should be increased from that proposed by Senators Norris and Barrett. I suggest a minimum of 35,000. A presidential ballot paper of 20 or 30 candidates is the last situation we want. Forgive me for saying so, but it would be farcical.

Senator Keane stated that the Government was committed to political reform. If the abolition of the Seanad and town councils, a reduction in the number of county councillors, doing away with elections to Údarás na Gaeltachta and reducing the number of Deputies by a mere six constitute political reform, it is a farcical policy. Let us be clear that what the Government wants to do is dominate the Dáil with its large majority, abolish the Upper House where it might get caught out and get rid of the town councils. The town councils, in the Government's view, comprise only ordinary people and it questions what they would they have to say about democracy. The Government wants to reduce the number of county councillors, who are doing an excellent job for little money but are obviously causing the Government difficulties. The last straw will be to abolish democracy within Gaeltacht areas. This is a disgrace.

I reiterate my support and that of my party for the motion tabled by Senator Norris and his colleague.