Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 5 Oct 1999

Vol. 508 No. 3

Written Answers - Electoral Systems.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

71 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has for changing the method of electing Members of Dáil Éireann, with specific reference to the number of Members and any possible change from multi-seat to single seat constituencies; the proposals, if any, he has to put to the Government in this regard; the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation and give effect to these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18717/99]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey):

A review of the electoral system envisaged in the Government programme, An Action Programme for the Millennium is being undertaken in the first instance by the All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution as part of their examination of the institutions of State. I would be hopeful that their report, when it is available, would provide the basis for an informed debate on this important matter.