Sir, – The composition of the Seanad is undemocratic and the Dáil executive has long since appropriated the power of our elected TDs. Both houses, but especially the Dáil, need deep reform. It cannot be done overnight but it must be done to restore our democracy.
To this end I suggest October 4th be designated Democracy Day when government give an annual account to the Dáil of their progress in this regard. – Yours, etc,
SORCHA DONNELLY,
Redford Park,
Greystones, Co Wicklow.
Sir, – The people have spoken. The Seanad lives on. Taoiseach Enda Kenny, however, has no moral authority to instigate its reform. His personal position on the upper house precludes him from any involvement whatsoever in this necessary endeavour. Spearheading reform must rest with those who supported retention.
The Quinn-Zappone Bill offers reform within the tight parameters of what’s permitted by the Constitution. This does not go far enough to address the deep-seated feeling of the people of Ireland, who clearly require radical and fundamental change in all aspects of the functioning of the house.
An all-inclusive Seanad reform commission should be established, with Fianna Fáil, as the only party who fought for retention, nominating the chair. Serious and balanced reform will win favour with the electorate. Keep in mind, they pick up the tab. Carpe diem! – Yours, etc,
EDWARD MORIARTY,
Gurranebane,
Caherciveen, Co Kerry.
Sir, – SPQH (Senatus Populusque Hibernicus = The Senate and People of Ireland). The above initials, based on the Ancient Roman initialism SPQR, are on Dublin City Hall, having been placed there when it was built in the 18th century. Those of us who voted No last Friday can take satisfaction from having confounded predictions with our success. Let us hope this will lead in due course to a far-reaching reform of the Seanad which will give those proud initials a significance that was probably not on the minds of the builders of City Hall. – Yours, etc,
HUGH GIBNEY,
Castletown,
Athboy, Co Meath.