Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It will give all citizens on the island and the diaspora a chance to have a vote. This is worthy of consideration and we should decide it, or at least discuss it, before the local elections.

One of the questions that every citizen should ask candidates in local elections is whether, if they are elected, they will determine that they have five votes in the Seanad election, whereas the rest of the people do not get one at all, except university graduates.

They could also be asked whether they accept that every citizen on the island of Ireland should have a vote. If all candidates in the local elections are asked these questions and if we publish their answers, then real consideration will be given to genuine reform of this House. The Seanad requires reform and there are a number of aspects of the different Bills relating to this matter which could be used to facilitate that reform. I urge the Leader to arrange a debate on Seanad reform in the near future.

I have previously noted how long it takes to get things done in this House. Some six or seven years ago the Seanad engaged in a debate on presumed consent in respect of organ donation. The debate on the particular measure involved was adjourned and nothing has happened in the meantime. In other words, a decision has not been made. It is interesting that a Bill to facilitate presumed consent is being introduced in Northern Ireland today. Wales has already enacted legislation on this matter. Let us ensure that we move earlier and more quickly than others to deal with issues of this nature. The relevant legislation seems to take a long time to proceed through the House.