Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will speak to section 1. Last year, 600,000 people voted to retain the Seanad. They did not intend to retain it as it was; they intended to have a reformed House. This Bill is an effort to bring about that reform. I listened very carefully to Senator Norris and I think that is exactly the reason for having a Committee Stage debate, so that we can discuss and debate these things and improve the Bill. This effort that Senator Zappone and I have made is an effort to have reform without having to have another referendum. I believe that is possible and that is why I support section 1. There may well be some changes that should be made and suggestions to that effect have been made already. Let us make sure that we have a proper debate to ensure that the reformed Seanad that comes about is one that we will be very proud of.