David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)

Especially given that over 100,000 have been forced to leave our shore. They should not be denied an opportunity to vote for their President. Such a measure is important.

The age limit for the presidential election should be examined. The provision regarding 35 years is arbitrary. It exists because people feel that a president should have life experience but 35 years is too high. Surely it is up to the people to decide whether a candidate who is 25 or 30 years old does not have enough life experience and would not unsuitable for the presidency. It should be up to them to make the decision. I am sure that there are many younger people with plenty of life experience who are also qualified to be President if given the opportunity. That issue also needs to be examined.

I support the motion. It is simple and uncontroversial and I do not see why it has not been accepted. It is one of those matters that should have been examined by the convention along with many other issues. It is unfortunate that is has not been. If the motion is challenged by the Government please accept that my party will vote in favour of it.