Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Warfield and the Sinn Féin Party for tabling these amendments. I first worked with Senator Warfield on this issue when we worked on the Electoral (Amendment) (Voting at 16) Bill. Reflecting on it or even thinking of the arguments put forward against it at the time, Members would find they were quite amusing if they were to read the transcript of that debate. Comments were made to the effect there are reasons we do not allow young people to smoke or buy alcohol until there are 18 years old. I always thought it was strange to compare something that has a potential negative impact on one's health with something that has quite a positive impact on one's health and on society and the community.