Fiach MacConghail (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It does not. Does it mean I oppose the Seanad, or Seanad reform? The problem is the issue of trust, in particular the trust of the Taoiseach and the Minister in not enabling the citizens to form their own view. We have been given a very narrow choice, which really is not a choice at all. It is highly disingenuous and insulting to citizens.

I am a proud Member of Seanad Éireann and I value every minute I am here. I learn a lot from the debates and I contribute when I have the capacity to do so. We speak about reform all the time and, as I said previously, there is not a Member of this House who does not favour reform of the Seanad. Every Member of this House has a view on that and, to continue the dysfunctionality theme, we know we have no power to change that.

Two years ago I came in here all guns blazing. I run the Abbey Theatre and when I come up with an idea to put on a play - I say to the Minister of State that it will not be a Gilbert and Sullivan one, although I see parts for him and Senator Sean Barrett-----