Public Votes To Keep Seanad

Voters in Ireland have rejected a government proposal to abolish the Seanad.

The proposal was lost by a narrow margin, with 48.3% voting in favour of abolition, with 51.7% against.

Almost 40% turned out for the election – higher than was previously expected.

The Seanad has existed in Ireland for more than 90 years, but the current government claimed it cost too much money too run and, if abolished, could save Irish taxpayer up to €20m a year. However, those opposed to the proposals said the institution plays a vital role in holding governments to account.

Following the result, Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who wanted the Seanad scrapped, said: "Sometimes in politics you get a wallop in the electoral process.

"I accept the verdict of the people. But I also say in humility in accepting that verdict, that there is a virtue in actually being able to stand before the people and say: 'I did say four years ago I would ask you this question. We've honoured that commitment in full and so have you'.

"You've given your verdict and decision and I accept it fully."

Elsewhere, a referendum to establish a Court of Appeal has been passed by a majority of almost two to one, with results showing just over 65% of voters were in favour.

Welcoming the news, Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter TD, said: "This is the first major structural reform of our courts system to be incorporated into our Constitution since it was first adopted in 1937. It is a vital reform which will modernise our court structure and ensure that at the highest level our courts operate with greater efficiency.

"It will also ensure greater transparency to decisions delivered by our Supreme Court where the constitutional validity of legislation is in dispute, and ensures that no individual member of the Court is prevented from delivering a judgement which fully details his or her views on the constitutional issue determined by the Court."

The new court is expected to be operating by autumn 2014.

(JP/IT)