Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State and I welcome the opportunity for us to have such a debate. I compliment Senator McDowell on his introduction of the Bill, and I suppose we can beat our own drum as I can say we have Fianna Fáil to thank, among others, for our being here to have the debate this afternoon. If it was not for that party and a few others, we might not be here at all, so it is important to acknowledge that.

Fianna Fáil is totally committed to reform and it is our intention to bring forward a few amendments to the Bill. There are many good elements to it, including the opportunity for citizens from the North of Ireland to vote, as well as any Irish passport holder anywhere in the world. We welcome that any diaspora will be given that opportunity. Graduates from any university would also have the opportunity to vote, and it is important we do not distinguish between institutions.

When we speak about reform, it is important to recognise the good work that goes on within the Chamber. Sometimes it is politically beneficial in some people's eyes to knock the system, but I acknowledge all the people elected to the Chamber through the years. Many of them have been here for some time. I acknowledge the work they have done during their time and it is important for all of us to recognise it. I have no doubt we could absolutely do things better in here, although I am new and have only been in the Chamber for the past month or so. Senator Craughwell noted earlier that some people see this as either a crèche or a nursing home, but I am between both. I do not know where I fit so I will leave that judgment to others. Like other Senators, I am delighted to be here and am proud and honoured to have the opportunity to address Members in a Chamber such as this.

I have major concerns about the proposal to reduce the number of Senators elected by county councillors from 43 to 13. It is quite severe. It could be argued that when we consider democracy at any level - the Upper House, the Lower House or locally - local government definitely needs a spotlight. There is nobody closer to the people than county councillors, as they live among the people seven days per week. They represent all sorts of people from every aspect of society. We will seek an amendment to the proposal in question.

Senator Norris referred earlier to house painters, etc. I am reminded of the song with the line, "All God's creatures have a place in the choir." Perhaps I should sing a few verses to him before the day is out.