Seanad abolition and Constitutional Convention
Seamus Kirk asks whether the Constitutional Convention will consider Seanad abolition before the Government proceeds. The Taoiseach says abolition is a separate programme commitment, with legislation due this session and a referendum planned for autumn.
Electoral reform is the next item for discussion at the Constitutional Convention. Is it intended that the convention will have an opportunity to consider the proposed abolition of the Seanad before a final or firm decision is taken on the matter? Will the convention have an opportunity, following consideration of the issue, to report to the Taoiseach or House?
Comment on this
No. As part of the programme for Government, the abolition of the Seanad is a separate matter that was accepted by the Government before the Constitutional Convention was established. The convention has been given a different range of topics on which to deliberate. The Bill to give effect to the abolition of the Seanad will be published this session, will be subject to normal procedures and will be put to the people in the autumn.