Why the inquiryreferendum didn’t pass

THE assertion by T Murphy (Letters, Nov 14) ) that the “eight AGs spooked the (highly) sophisticated Irish electorate into keeping the legal profession rolling in money” by rejecting the Oireachtas inquiry referendum is flawed.

The people recognised that this proposed amendment was rushed through the Houses of the Oireachtas, was worded very poorly and would give politicians powers that no other civilised country has given to their politicians, ie deciding the balance of the rights of the person when considering the requirements of the public interest.

A mature Oireachtas should accept the decision of the electorate with grace and a commitment to ensuring that the valid concerns of our citizens will be reflected upon, not attempt to lay blame for a defeated referendum at the feet of the eight AGs or the Referendum Commission or the confused electorate, or each other.