Madam, – Pat Hynes (October 23rd) does his best to defend the future of Seanad Éireann but the fact is that the Seanad has outlived its usefulness. At its best it is no more than a glorified talking shop, toastmasters’ club or debating society where a group of well-heeled individuals gather to pontificate and let off steam. It serves no worthwhile function.
At its worst it is a serious drain on the economy of the country, especially at this time of serious economic recession. It is associated in the minds of many people with the excesses of cronyism and nepotism from which, as a society, we are all trying to distance ourselves at this stage. We cannot afford this waste of money any longer. It costs in the region of €10 million to maintain this facade and its infrequent visitors (€70,000 plus €50,000-€60,000 in expenses per senator) every year. Close it down at once, allocate this money to those in society who need it most and put these 60 individuals out to grass. – Yours, etc,