Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire. I commend Senator Swanick on this simple and relevant Bill. I also commend Senator Wilson who was instrumental in bringing it forward. I support the Bill. I listened to Senator Ó Donnghaile and, in fairness, he is always very proactive. It would be a nice idea if we could run with this Fianna Fáil Bill on both sides of the Border. When the Parliament next door gets up and running, and agrees terms and conditions, hopefully we might get to progress it further. Certainly, it would mark it as a very relevant Bill if that could happen. I realise it would not be simple and would probably be a great challenge, but stranger things have happened. I appreciate the Senator's nice comments on it and it would be an extra feather in our cap if that could happen.

The Bill shows the relevance of the Seanad and how it is working in its intended format. I pour scorn on the elitists who wish to fill the Seanad with their own peers and personalities. This example has shown how the hard work of Senator Swanick has paid off. As the Minister is aware, most legislation at present is being initiated in the Seanad, where the balance of power is a little more straightforward to get anything done. Some very relevant legislation is coming through the Seanad. I again commend Senator Swanick on his good work and godspeed with the Bill.