Labour calls for convention for new constitution

Beebub · **Joined:** Mon Jul 13, 2009 1:22 pm **Posts:** 1014

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2011/0208/1224289258500.html

They claim they will be accepting submissions from anyone...

Quote:

The Labour document says the new constitutional convention would include experts and specialists, as well as ordinary citizens drawn by lot. It would have an open mandate, and no part of the existing 1937 Constitution would be exempt from consideration. It would be asked to prepare a draft constitution within one year.

I'd happily get involved in a submission, but wouldn't have the expertise to do one on my own. I think we should definately make a submission if this comes about. Although I think we'd need to be realistic in our suggestions. The references to god and religion will not be a high priority given that the they want to reform/ abolish the Seanad as part of the review; meaning that it's something they would want to get passed in a referendum. Anything too drastic which could run the risk of not being passed will likely not be included.

What issues in relation to the constitution do people here think are more important?

Is there anythnig in the constitution in realtion to education? If so this would be my number one.

Ciaran · **Joined:** Mon Jul 13, 2009 11:10 pm **Posts:** 217

If it's about drawing up a new constitution rather than deleting or reviewing bits of the current one I wouldn't be too shy about stating exactly what we want but maybe prioritise education in the submission. We'd be in a minority of groups strongly pushing secularism and we may as well get all our ideas in there. It may come to nothing with an FG majority but it could be a rare opportunity too. I wish I didn't feel so naive saying that...

Beebub · **Joined:** Mon Jul 13, 2009 1:22 pm **Posts:** 1014

I've just r-read it and it says the convention will include 'ordinary citeznes drawn by lot'. It doesn't say, as I suggested that they'll be accepting submissions. Maybe this is somethig we could raise if they go ahead with it.

Bik · **Posted:** Tue Feb 08, 2011 4:12 pm

Beebub wrote:

I've just r-read it and it says the convention will include 'ordinary citeznes drawn by lot'. It doesn't say, as I suggested that they'll be accepting submissions.

Well if they aren't accepting submissions from religious groups either?................some hope! :lol:

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Labour calls for convention for new constitution

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