Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Five of the Gaeltacht constituencies - Donegal, Meath, Waterford, Galway West and Cork - voted to retain this House in the recent referendum, while the remaining two - Mayo and Kerry - did not. Our debate on democracy and participation began when the democratic elections to Údarás na Gaeltachta were cancelled against the advice of many people in this House. The Leader indicated yesterday that the Taoiseach will be coming to the House to discuss his reform proposals.

In light of the verdict of the people, we should restore to the agenda the extension of democracy to which I refer. I am of the view that - contrary to what was stated on certain posters during the referendum campaign - more democracy and more politicians are going to be required. I look forward to gender quotas coming into operation in Gaeltacht areas in order that the rather powerful mná na hÉireann might express themselves by being elected to an tÚdarás.