Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is significant that the Senators who are promoting the motion this evening are those who were very much to the fore in defending the Seanad during the recent referendum campaign. We all agree they did a magnificent job in that regard. Unfortunately, a great opportunity was lost during those debates in the referendum because the Government decided to focus on a €20 million saving. All the other debate, which could have been constructive and very helpful, was left until the very last weeks.

One is tempted to ask who came up with the bright idea at all of a referendum on abolishing the Seanad. Many reasons have been put forward in this respect but one is particularly evident; the powers that be perhaps saw the Seanad as a nuisance because it had a view on what the Government was doing and put a brake on it while it scrutinised national and European policies. If that is correct, it is a sad indictment which is in many ways undermining what democracy should be about. However, we are where we are, and that is why it is significant that the same Senators have not left the field. They are here and want to respond to what they believe are the wishes of the people. There is no doubt that part of the decision, although not necessarily all the decision, was based on the idea that reform was expected.

It is not in our remit to bring about reform as a Seanad and very often people pose the question why this is so. One of the reasons it took a long time to create an interest in the debate was a lack of profile of the Seanad. One need only consider, for example, the absence of coverage of some of the foremost debates we have had in this House. The only time I have seen the Gallery overflowing with media people was when controversy or a fight was expected. It is still empty, although people may be listening in their offices.

There is a way to improve this issue. A number of Bills were brought forward independently and by what we will call the "Opposition". I will give an example of a Bill I introduced on the release of the details of the 1926 census. Everybody on the Government side spoke in favour of the Bill but the Government could not accept it. The Bill should have been progressed to Committee Stage so many of the issues in it could be discussed. The other evening we had a debate on sign language for the blind and the same thing happened; it was evident that we all held the same view but the Bill was stymied.

I fully agree with the idea of one vote for each citizen, as it is not a problem. The Government must be genuine and committed in responding to the wishes to the people. It must endeavour to allow us have a meaningful role and not feel that at all times we must be obstructed. I hope there will be a further debate after this evening and we can continue to tease out the issue and put forward proposals to the Government.