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Seanad not fit for purpose – Kelleher


Although he is seeking a seat in the Seanad, Corofin’s Declan Kelleher believes the Upper House of the Oireachtas, as it stands, “is not fit for purpose” and should be halved to 30 members.

Mr Kelleher claimed that for years the Seanad has been hijacked by political parties and used as a retirement home for politicians unsuccessful in general elections.
“Its panels should be restructured, reflecting the demands of modern Ireland and its members should be directly elected by the people,” he said.
“Each citizen could choose to have a vote on one particular panel. If university panels are to be retained then they should include all third-level institutes. This would create a far more independent Seanad, which could independently interrogate Dáil legislation, unlike the current situation where government parties can simply force the legislation through anyway,” he added.
The former president of the INTO, who is standing on the NUI Panel, emphasised that education is vital and that all children and teenagers be enabled to reach their true potential, irrespective of background, gender, creed or ability.
“I believe that the quality of the compulsory years education at primary and post-primary level are essential in achieving this objective. Our children will get one chance and one chance only – there are no dress rehearsals,” he said.

 

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