A Chara,

I wish to make the following submission to the current review regarding the increase of TD’s due to population increase.

Article 16.2.2 of the constitution recommends the number of TD’s per population.

The constitution was framed in the 1930’s and early 40’s when communication and transport was at a very different situation to the situation in 2023. It is much easier to contact a local representative now with development in all types of communication.  Also as society has developed there are multiple support systems to assist the population in regards to issues they may have a problem with. 

Our TD’s should be concentrating on passing laws rather than attending every funeral and social event in order to get reelected. The 160 TD are more than sufficient to carry out  their responsibilities. 

Therefore my submission is that we should have a constitutional referendum to change the requirement to properly reflect the needs of our modern 21st century.

Each TD earns a substantial wage ( which is correct) but also receives substantial grants towards the maintenance of their office and they all receive a pension. There is no need to increase the numbers. Indeed we could do with a reduction  from the 160 we currently have.

Is mise,

Mary Cummins