Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
618. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update in relation to the Supreme Court ruling in the case brought by a person (details supplied); if options have been developed; the timeline for the reform of Seanad Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36401/23]
View answerIn a recent judgment, the Supreme Court determined that sections 6 and 7 of the Seanad Electoral (University Members) Act 1937, which sets out the current legislative provisions governing the election of university senators to Seanad Éireann, are unconstitutional because they are not consistent with Article 18.4.2 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court has suspended its declaration of invalidity until 31 July 2023 in the first instance.
Following the principal judgement in the case, the Court invited submissions from the parties as to the length of time required to address the issues identified in the principal judgment. The Court has not yet ruled on this issue but is expected to do so before 31 July.
In order to respond fully to the Supreme Court judgment, my Department, along with the Office of the Attorney General, is currently considering the principal judgment with a view to preparing options for consideration by the Government. This work is being progressed as a matter of priority in my Department.
