asked the Minister for Local Government if he will introduce proposals for legislation to extend the franchise so as to permit all persons of 18 years and over to vote at parliamentary and presidential elections.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Extension of Franchise.
Any reduction in the age limit for Dáil and presidential elections would require an amendment of the Constitution.
Would the Minister not consider amending the Constitution in that respect?
I would not.
Is the Minister aware that it would assist Deputy Donnellan considerably if the age limit were lowered below 18?
Is the Minister aware that no matter how the age limit is reduced or increased we will never see Deputy Cogan in here again?
Order!
I would seriously ask the Minister, in view of the fact that at the age of 18 our people are in the Army, the Defence Forces, whether he would not consider that they do deserve to have a say in the Parliament of the country.
That is an argument, not a question.