Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We do not often expect to be successful in our attempts to have amendments on some issues accepted. It is often the case, where a Government has a huge majority, that we go through a ritual not expecting any major change at the end of the day. One of the reasons for this is the Whips system. I have been listening to the debate on the abolition of the Seanad, in respect of which I have heard some wonderful contributions from the other side of the House. It is clear that if they had the choice some Members opposite would be voting against this Bill. However, the Whip system does not permit this. While it is necessary to have a Whip system in most cases, as clearly shown by the House of Commons, it is possible to allow people a free vote at times without the whole Parliament falling apart. As such, the argument in this regard could be left to one side.

I believe that because this is a fundamental issue, not only for Senators but for democracy, there should be a free vote on it. We know from earlier contributions that this is a fundamental issue. It should not, therefore, be treated lightly or glibly by sticking to the tradition of the Whips system. I do not support this legislation and hope that Senators who are bound by the Whip but are committed to this democratic House to which they have made huge contributions, and not because of their salaries and so on, will have a free vote. I fully understand the emotion and outrage expressed by particular Members of this House. I know their track records and the amount of time they have dedicated to this House. I am aware of the research they have undertaken and how seriously they take their role. I know that they have invested their own professionalism and expertise in this House. This will not be available in the future in any mandated way if this House is abolished.