Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I too call for a period of calm reflection after what was a bumpy ride, to say the least, for the last few weeks. It was one of those peculiar, bizarre and typically Irish situations that the Seanad found itself it in, where its very survival was a matter of considerable public discourse. I believe that reform will happen in due course because the people voted very clearly for reform. They want us to reform and we will do so. In recent months I have studied the various reports on reform and the Seanad Bill proposed by Senators Zappone and Quinn. One of the biggest concerns of the public is the fact that only 2% or 3% of the population has a vote in Seanad elections. The aforementioned Bill could provide everyone in Ireland with a vote, which is very interesting. A constitutional referendum would not be required to effect such a change. There are a lot of possibilities but we need to get it right. That will take a period of time.

Will the Leader facilitate a period of reflection over the next several months to ensure what happens in the future with this House will be correct, reflect what the people want and that this House will support our democracy, which is not even 100 years old? We still are a very young democracy and this Chamber will play a crucial role in not just getting us out of our present difficulties but ensuring Ireland becomes the best country in the world.

The Seanad has received an enormous mandate from the people.