Sir, - The argument of Malcolm Byrne (January 18th) was most persuasive that voting rights in relation to the Seanad should be extended to all third level graduates. This is consistent with the fact which he emphasises that the function of the Seanad is to provide a voice for all the vocational interests in Irish society. Such reform would also pave the way for greater involvement of graduates who happen to reside in Northern Ireland, and this could have substantially beneficial effects.
It is my belief that the Seanad, could prove to have a highly significant role in paving the way towards an eventual political solution for the whole island of Ireland. If sufficient numbers of northern candidates took their place within the Sean ad, elected through the education panels, it would inevitably lead to more profound mutual insight and understanding. Indeed the Seanad could transcend the sectarian myopia which has limited the political parties on either side of the Black Pig's Dyke. - Yours, etc.,
Islandtasserty Road,
Coleraine BT52 2PN.