FF: Abolition of Seanad 'a fundamental mistake'

Fianna Fáil has said it will publish detailed proposals on Seanad reform as part of their campaign against its abolition.

Yesterday, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny outlined details of an amendment to the Constitution, which, if passed, would see the Seanad cease to exist after the next general election.

Mr Kenny said abolishing the Seanad could save the taxpayer €20m every year.

A referendum on the matter will be put to the electorate in the autumn.

The Honorary Secretary of Fianna Fáil, Dara Calleary, said abolishing the Upper House will result in less accountability.

He said: "We feel to abolish the Seanad instead of reforming it is a fundamental mistake.

"Taking away athe Seanad is taking away an avenue of challenge to the Government, and particularly this Government."