Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Much has been said about the referendum tomorrow and I find that the public is still confused. As I am sure are all the other Members, I still am being asked by people how they should vote. I believe it comes down to a single fairly simple message, which is vote "No" for the citizen and vote "Yes" if one wishes to put power into the hands of fewer people. This is what it is about for me. If we close down the voices, we will be closing down representation and diversity. We will be devolving power into fewer hands, which ultimately is a blow to democracy. Regardless of the outcome tomorrow, Members still have a duty to serve and a debate is needed on political reform. Moreover, Members have a contribution to make as they are being paid by the taxpayer and have a job to do. Whatever the outcome may be, they must accept it.

I also have grave concerns in respect of the second referendum and I do not believe it is sufficiently understood. On foot of the reading I have done on the subject myself, I am not convinced that a new court of appeal will solve the backlog. In fact, the lesson I have been learning is that reform of the court system is needed, as is better case management. Again, the answer is to have reform on both fronts and that is my request. Members need to get up and to get on with it. Next week is a new business week and whatever the outcome, Members should get involved and earn their spot here in the interest of reform for the citizens of this country.