Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

They will realise that it is a negation of democracy. It will become clear that if the referendum is passed, we will be dealing with an over-centralised concept of government which has never served the country well and never will. I hope somebody in the halls of power will look at the transcript of this debate and realises this might not be as straightforward as they think. We will have an opportunity to retain the Seanad, even if a black and white "Yes" or "No" question is put to the people, not because we want to save our own positions but for the good of the country. If Members from all parties consider the manner in which this has been presented, there is a good possibility that the Seanad can be saved. Even in the midst of the challenges of the recession, we should not lose this opportunity to do what is right for the country, as opposed to what is right for a party, power or personal ambition. We owe Senator John Crown a debt of gratitude for giving us a chance to do what is needed in the interests of ordinary people. He has made a major contribution to the House since he came here. He does not have to be here, but he has seen the potential of the House. For heaven's sake, we must not lose this opportunity to be independent-minded and do what is correct.