Downsize the Dáil

MAJOR demographic changes were disclosed in the 2002 census of population. A commission is now being set up to decide on constituency changes to ensure fairness in representation.

The constitution lays down that there should be one TD for every 20,000 to 30,000 people. With a population of 3.9 million, we are allowed between 130 and 195 TDs.

At present we have 166 who have given themselves considerable pay increases and should now be made to provide some productivity for it by reducing their number. We could be represented adequately by 130 TDs.