Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is a defining moment in our history. Members are being presented with a referendum to decide whether this House should be abolished or retained. I believe this argument will be won by reasoned debate, but only by reasoned debate that will demonstrate the benefits of this House to Irish politics and in the service of Irish people. There will be many cat fights originating from both sides of this House, but Members must forget about themselves. The majority of Members present may never be returned in the future, with the exception of those who may have been promised something that is not democratically based. Consequently, Members should consider how they can serve the Irish people, as that is their sole purpose here. My vision for a reformed Seanad is one in which all Irish citizens will have a vote, where there will be thinking politics-----