Regret over lack of Seanad reform

Former Tánaiste Michael McDowell says the failure of Enda Kenny’s government to reform the Seanad is “deeply regrettable”.

Speaking last night at the launch of his Seanad campaign in Dublin, Mr McDowell, who is contending the NUI Panel for the Upper House, said he wants to continue the campaign for reform which was championed by former senators John Crown, Katherine Zappone, and Feargal Quinn.

Mr McDowell has called for wide-ranging reforms which would include extending votes to all citizens; giving the Seanad powers over EU affairs; and extending the vote beyond university graduates.

He told the event at the Royal Irish Academy “there is no good reason not to implement Seanad reform now”.

“Democracy needs politicians with a vocation to serve their fellow citizens. But citizenship in a republic is not only about rights — it is also about duties.

"Loyalty to the State entails active support for democratic process and for our democratic institutions. We need to make our democratic institutions serve the people and promote the common good. That is what a republic is all about,” he said.