Independents strike blow in fight to save Seanad

The Government’s drive to abolish the Seanad was thrown into confusion yesterday when rebel senators forced ministers not to oppose a bill calling for a reformed upper house to remain in business.

Independents Feargal Quinn and Katherine Zappone tabled the proposed legislation as part of their campaign to save the Seanad from closure.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has committed the Coalition to a referendum on the future of the upper house this autumn after calling for its abolition.