Fiach MacConghail (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I believe there is some merit to the Senator's amendment, particularly the sentiment behind the consideration of a proposal to amend the Constitution, but I am just not sure. My concern over section 7 is that the public water forum could end up comprising narrow vested interests. The Constitutional Convention has a track record, albeit a slow one. However, we can see that the recommendations of the convention since the beginning have resulted in referenda, and will result in referenda on the age of citizens eligible to run in presidential elections and marriage equality.

I would like the Minister to consider, either now or on Report Stage, what kind of response is required. He has put his views on the record, both in the Dáil and very clearly in the Seanad. Unlike some of my colleagues in the Seanad, I am an Independent. Senator Norris should note that this means we differ constantly in the way we vote.