Liam Herrick: Democracy may not die by guillotine, but it’s seriously injured

Government is storing up host of problems as it tacks on numerous amendments to the Electoral Reform Bill without time for proper scrutiny

Darragh O’Brien: His proposed amendments fell so far outside the scope of the original purpose of the bill they could not be classed as related. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The end of June and start of July are a dangerous time in the Oireachtas. Legislation, which has taken months, if not years, to progress, suddenly moves at a pace that would put Usain Bolt to shame as the Government seeks to clear its desk of bills before the recess. 

Debates are curtailed and as a result, scrutiny is minimal. But within this rush to tie up legislative loose ends, there are opportunities also.