In moving the adoption of Article 32 we accept the Amendment for the deletion of the words "other than University Members."
DEBATES ON ADJOURNMENT. - ARTICLE 32. MODE OF ELECTION OF SENATORS.
Before each election of Members of the Senate/Seanad Eireann (other than University Members) a panel shall be formed consisting of:—
(a) Three times as many qualified persons as there are Members to be elected of whom two-thirds shall be nominated by the Chamber/ Dáil Eireann voting according to principles of Proportional Representation and one-third shall be nominated by the Senate/Seanad Eireann voting according to principles of Proportional Representation; and
(b) Such persons who have at any time been Members of the Senate/ Seanad (including Members about to retire) as signify by notice in writing addressed to the President of the Executive Council their desire to be included in the panel.
The method of proposal and selection for nomination shall be decided by the Chamber/Dáil and Senate/Seanad respectively, with special reference to the necessity for arranging for the representation of important interests and institutions in the country; Provided that each proposal shall be in writing and shall state the qualifications of the person proposed. As soon as the panel has been formed a list of the names of the Members of the panel arranged in alphabetical order with their qualifications shall be published.
Mr. O'HIGGINS:
CATHAL O'SHANNON:
May I ask what exactly is contemplated by the special reference to the necessity for making arrangement for the representation of important interests and institutions in the country? It seems to me that the implication is that of special representation upon a very undemocratic basis.
Mr. O'HIGGINS:
"Important" is simply a relative term; it will mean just whatever the Dáil takes it to mean, or, the Dáil for the time being, considers it means. I do not think it in any way binds you to any certain or definite interests.
Question, "that the proposed amendment to leave out the words ‘exclusive of Members for the Universities' be agreed to," put and carried.
Motion made and question put: "That Article 32, as amended, stand part of the Bill."
Agreed.