I would like to raise the question of the forthcoming Seanad by-election and point out that it is a complete and absolute farce. It highlights the utter inability, or unwillingness, of the Government to take on board any question whatever of Seanad reform. There is an electorate of a couple of hundred voters, almost entirely from political parties, who are directed by head office on what way to vote. In other words, it is a nomination process; by no stretch of the imagination is it an election. For that reason, it is very regrettable that we have this in the dying days of Seanad Éireann.

I listened to a debate between three of the candidates on "The Late Debate". There was a very articulate young woman from Sinn Féin, a decent doctor from the west and Mr. Beades. I thought they were excellent and the debate was terrific. It was a real vote of optimism and hope in the Seanad that people of this calibre should put themselves forward. Of the fourth candidate, there was no sign whatsoever of Ms Maíria Cahill who is a nominated person for the Labour Party.

That is not a matter for the House and the Senator should not refer to people who are not Members.

It most definitely is, a Chathaoirligh. How could you possibly maintain that? This is a matter of who will be elected to this House. Of course, it is appropriate.

It is not a matter for the Order of Business.

It is completely appropriate.

There was no standing from this woman at all. Questions have been raised about her involvement with dissident republicans.

On a point of order-----

There has been no explanation, whatsoever. I have received a communication from one of the sisters of Robert McCartney asking for an investigations into this matter in advance of the election.

Senator Norris, I have called Senator Bacik on a point of order.

I understood there was a convention in this House that we do not name or cast allegations about people who are not currently present. I ask the Senator to withdraw his comments.

Senator Norris knows the rule quite well.