Seanad reforms unlikely in current Government term

Any reform of the Seanad looks increasingly unlikely during this Government's term, Opposition representatives have said following a meeting with Taoiseach Enda Kenny on the issue.

Mr Kenny, accompanied by Labour Minister Alex White, briefed Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams and Independent Senators Jillian van Turnhout and Sean Barrett.

In the course of the hour-long meeting, the Taoiseach suggested that some reforms in relation to the functions of the Seanad be proceeded with, as recommended by a working group chaired by former senator Maurice Manning.

They included new roles in relation to scrutiny of North-South ministerial meetings, EU legislation, regulatory reports and public policy consultation.

However, little reference was made to other suggested reforms such as gender balance, extension of the franchise and Northern representation.