Those outstanding Bye-Elections.....

[Green]

TDs have somehow perpetuated a myth that they can get someone additional benefits when the truth is that they are taking advantag of peoples ignorance and unfamiliarity with what State services are available.

In my opinion, representations from TDs to State bodies should be banned for obvious conflict of interest reasons and because it undermines democracy - can be used to buy votes. It is also inappropriate to have a member of the Oireachtas to lobby on behalf of third parties concerning legislation that the Oireachtas has passed.

I agree with all this. TDs are now given grants to maintain "Constituency Offices" from which they can advise people how to get services that they could get by picking up the phone and enquiring...

 

[Complainer]

The President should be stepping in here and protecting the constitution

Article 16.2 dealing with citizens and their representation is being ignored here.

Realy, it's one of the few important tasks the President has, where is she?

She is busy with her other priorities; [broken link removed]

 

[shammy feen]

Like has been said before you can argue whether a certain number of TDs are required for a constitueny until the cows come home. The nub of the matter is that the government are deliberatly and flagrantly ignoring the constitution and democratic process because it suits their requirements, but being typical Irish we roll over and take it and they know we will.

Mary McAleese was a FF nominee so its no great surprise that she wont rock the boat...no backbone or motivation in her last year in office.