We do not propose to object to these two nominations and we are relieved to see that at least on this occasion the question of the dual mandate is not involved. The persons proposed are not Members of the Dáil, although one is a Member of the Seanad. While we are not opposing the appointments, it is necessary to draw attention to the fact that the Labour Party in this area do not behave with a great deal of responsibility and I feel that this constant changing of their members in the European Parliament is not reflecting credit on this country in that institution. I would hope that this is the last of these party political manoeuvres that we will see.
I do not complain at all about the quality of the two members now selected. They are experienced in our political life and in public affairs generally and I would not like to be taken as casting any aspersions whatever on their qualities or qualifications for membership of the European Parliament. However, from the point of view of the dignity of our political life here and our standing in the European Parliament it is time, as Deputy De Rossa rightly said, that this musical chairs type of operation should cease. Having said that, we will not object to these appointments.
