asked the Taoiseach whether, in order to find out whether the public would prefer to see Seanad Éireann as at present constituted abolished, he will consult their wishes on the matter by means of a referendum or other suitable method.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Seanad Éireann: Question of Abolition.
The answer is in the negative.
May I ask the Taoiseach what are his objections to having a referendum on matters such as the abolition of the Seanad and the revival of the language, remembering that they are not sufficiently important to be discussed at general elections? But public opinion is very important and it would be worth finding out what public opinion is on these matters.
The position is that the Constitution was passed by referendum or general plebiscite and I do not think it would be desirable to spend money in having another plebiscite.
Surely the powers are there to hold a referendum on matters such as this? Has the Taoiseach any objection to having a referendum on matters such as this?
I have the objection that I do not believe that because some Deputy wants to have a certain thing put to the people it should be put.
Could the Taoiseach tell us why he decided upon his own authority, and without a referendum, to abolish the Seanad on another occasion? That was a time when he was a very angry young man.
I had sense.