The Labour Party has called for the abolition of the Seanad as part of an overhaul of the political system.
The party's spokesman on constitutional matters and law reform, Brendan Howlin, said the party's position was that "fundamental changes" were required to strengthen the political system.
Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland today, Mr Howlin said confidence has been lost in the oversight of public business in this country.
He said a radical overhaul "would strengthen the oversight of an effective single chamber of parliament".
However, in reference to reports that the Government is considering holding a referendum on the abolition of the Upper House on the same day as the election, Mr Howlin said the future of the Seanad was "not a simple matter" and that it would take time to address such a move.
The Labour Party said yesterday such a move by the Government was tantamount to an attempt to delay the date of the election.
A party spokesman said that legislation for a referendum was a requirement under law and that that the Bill would have to be enacted at least 30 days before the holding of the referendum. That would not be possible within the timeframe of the election.
The Labour Party is launching a policy paper on Thursday which will outline its plans in the area.
Minister for Defence Tony Killeen confirmed yesterday that the future of the Seanad will be discussed at the first Cabinet meeting of the new year this week with a strong mood at senior levels in Government for the question to be put to the people on the day of the election.