asked the Taoiseach whether his attention has been directed to newspapers reports of a speech made by a Deputy in which criticism was made of the electoral system of proportional representation; and whether he will give an assurance that his Government will not seek leave to introduce any Bill to amend the Constitution in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Proportional Representation.
I have seen newspaper reports of the speech to which the Deputy evidently refers.
The system of election of the members of Dáil Éireann by proportional representation, provided for in Article 16.2.5º of the Constitution, has the full support and approval of the Government, and I assure the Deputy that no action will be taken by the Government with a view to the amendment of the Constitution in this regard.
Mr. de Valera
Will the Taoiseach say whether he does not think that the Deputy is altgother too naive on this question?
Perhaps I might say that if the Leader of the Opposition pondered over the speech he made he might ultimately come to the conclusion that he had made a mistake?
Mr. de Valera
Not at all.