Seanad reform legislation
Thomas P. Broughan asks whether reforms accompanying the Seanad abolition referendum will require legislation. The Taoiseach says he will set out the reforms shortly and expects most changes can be made without legislation, prompting criticism from Opposition deputies.
In regard to the Seanad abolition referendum, does the Taoiseach intend over the summer to bring forward legislation on reform of this House to give it strength and powers like other unicameral Legislatures such as New Zealand or Sweden? Will he spell that out clearly to the public, in other words, to people who would say they would vote for abolition of Seanad if the Dáil was reformed? Is that the Taoiseach's plan of action?
Comment on this
Will legislation follow or will the changes require legislation?
Comment on this
It may be necessary in some cases but I think we can make the vast majority of changes and run the place far more effectively without legislation.
Comment on this
It speaks volumes that they are to be set out when the Dáil will be in recess.
Comment on this
The Deputy's party used to do the same thing.
Comment on this
The Taoiseach can text all the changes to us.
Comment on this
He can get the new Clerk to deliver it.