FF backlash over dual mandate axing

ANGRY Fianna Fáil backbench TDs yesterday claimed they had been misled over details of legislation which will force them to give up their council seats.

At a meeting of the parliamentary party yesterday, TDs and senators raised a number of issues arising from the planned axing of the dual mandate, such as the lack of a guarantee that they will have a right of representation in councils.

"There was murder over the skimpy nature of the legislation," said one deputy. "This isn't the same bill that we were promised."

One deputy went as far as threatening to support Fine Gael TD Michael Ring's legal challenge if their concerns were not addressed.

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Some 13 speakers contributed to the debate , including Senators Camillus Glynn and Paschal Mooney, as well as TDs Noel O'Flynn, Batt O'Keeffe and John McGuinness, with many calling for urgent clarification on the plans.

A spokesperson for Environment Minister Martin Cullen, however, said the right of representation for TDs and senators was guaranteed and the minister would discuss the issue with TDs today.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, who was present at the meeting, also said he recognised the importance of representation for TDs and senators.

There was also anger over measures which will stop Oireachtas members from directly appointing successors to take over their council seats.

While deputies will be able to nominate a successor, the individual who inherits the seat will be determined by a convention meeting of the local FF organisation. When contacted yesterday, Noel O'Flynn TD said deputies should be able to ensure their nominated successors are appointed.

"We're sacrificing our local authority seats if we're doing that we should have every right to ensure our electoral base is protected by being able to name our substitute," Mr O'Flynn said.

Mary Hanafin TD, a spokesperson for the parliamentary party, said this issue was decided by the party's national executive and was not the responsibility of Mr Cullen.

The Taoiseach also expressed support for the national executive's decision and said it was important to ensure those selected to run in the 2004 local elections would be able to win seats.

Fianna Fáil is planning to hold all conventions for the selection of candidates to take over Oireachtas members' seats as soon as possible.

There were also concerns expressed over the level of compensation available for Oireachtas members who are forced to give up their local authority seats.

Dáil and Seanad members will get €12,800 each, but one contributor to the debate said long-serving members should get more money.