Seanad fails to meet our needs

OUR need for a “smart economy” is often highlighted. However, those who make the calls would seem to be unaware of the training and skills needed to achieve the objectives. Should we have in government persons with the skills needed to understand what is required, we could be more confident of success.

We do not have in Dáil Eireann elected persons who have the training or accomplishments needed to promote the concept credibly. I had expected that the candidature for Seanad election to the NUI panel would meet the needs. However, after checking the qualifications and achievements of the persons in the NUI ballot paper, I was dismayed to find that the candidature did not have the calibre of scientist or engineer needed to have an impact. I suggest that the Universities Panel be discontinued and replaced by persons with outstanding track records in a variety of disciplines. That panel might consist of at least 12-16 persons, and three quarters of these might be scientists and engineers. The membership of the Royal Irish Academy (RIA) includes an abundance of persons with the abilities to make impacts. Members of the academy have worked at the frontiers of their fields, and their achievements will have gained international recognition. Those who vote for the candidates who are nominated should be members of the RIA. That electorate will ensure that those who are elected will have the needs of the nation in their perspective.

Those who sought election to the Industry panel are linked to political parties. That is wrong, in my view. The candidature should be from persons with outstanding records in production, trade, and industry, and their views and inclinations should not be influenced or hampered by a need to promote party policy. A Seanad along the lines that I am suggesting would provide us with a governmental organisation that would command international credibility. It would be a major step towards achieving the smart economy that we badly need.