Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is my point. If one extends the franchise, one must arrive at a decision as to whom it should be given, apart from those who live in the country. Would we extend it to all those who hold a passport? For how long can they have been living outside the country? Must they visit the country every six months or must they stay abroad? This is not a black and white issue.

The President is not only a figurehead. The officeholder is subject to strong constitutional requirements in terms of how he or she interacts with the Houses of the Oireachtas, both in respect of legislative duties and as a custodian. This issue must also be discussed. In framing the discussion, the Government amendment, which was moved by Senator Colm Burke and which I support, provides that we approach this matter in a considered way. We cannot click and move because this will take time. As a former Minister, Senator McDowell should know that better than most.