John Whelan (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I share the overall concerns that it is not good for democracy, Ireland at large and the electorate that there is a downward curve in our overall representation. I cannot believe my good fortune to be present for the maiden speech in the House from Senator Rónán Mullen, speaking as a candidate for the elections to the European Parliament and who is embarking on this difficult task. I commend everyone who puts their name on a ballot paper. It is not an easy station. There was a hint that Senator Mullen was going to run but given his recent contributions I was not sure how independent he would be. I do not know if there are shades of Reform Alliance, UKIP or other bits and pieces creeping in.