PDs do a U-turn into the Seanad

AS the nation holds its breath for the results of the Seanad elections, the PDs are eagerly awaiting the appointment by the Taoiseach of two senators from among their own ranks.

This development is seen as being important for the future of the party not least because one of these appointees is likely to become their new leader.

Twenty years ago, however, its current acting leader, Mary Harney, said: “We do not need the Seanad. For the Progressive Democrats this is the first step which is necessary along a road of institutional reform. Getting rid of the Seanad is part of it”.