David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support Senator Darragh O'Brien's comments on the banks. Regrettably, every Government action, legislative and otherwise, has been to rebalance matters in favour of the banks and against the individual customer. Ulster Bank came in very aggressively promoting unrealistic loans, and to hear that English person talking about repossession of Irish homes was utterly disgusting and repellant. Let us celebrate 237 years of American independence. As Senator Barrett pointed out, during those 237 years they found their Senate very useful. They have not got rid of that. Perhaps that is something the Taoiseach, Deputy Kenny, could learn from them.

I have read this Bill. Many of the people who have spoken about it have not read it. It is obvious from what they say because they are saying they cannot vote against it because they would be denying the people a referendum. Rubbish. They should read the Bill. There is not one mention of the word "referendum" in this Bill or in the explanatory memorandum. It is entitled, Abolition of Seanad Éireann Bill. There are phrases such as "abolition day". There is not one whisper about a referendum. This is massive con job. It is a lie by the Government. They are trying to persuade us that if we vote against our own abolition we are voting against giving the people a choice. This is nonsense. No person of integrity could vote for this Bill and remain in the House. It is not giving the people a vote. We can all agree with that. We have all been looking for that. We have been begging the Government to do it and it has not. This is a massive lie perpetrated on the Irish people. I hope they will see through it because it is a power grab and a deception.