Sir, - Despite his extensive exposé (June 20th), Senator David Norris did not discuss the rationale of university seats per se. He must realise that, as the parliamentary system has developed in this country, university representation is a sham (and a flag of convenience).
Not one of the senators elected under the university franchise in 1997 is engaged in university teaching, research or administration. The total poll was a mere 13,380 for Trinity and 34,100 for NUI - 43 per cent and 37 per cent of the electorate. Will we have a repeat performance in 2002?
The tempting conclusion is to abolish university seats as Britain did in 1948. Yet that would be a drastic step considering that Bunreacht na hÉireann provides for the laudable (though much abused) principle of vocational representation in the Upper House. The better course would be to amend Article 18 and to incorporate the university franchise in an expanded cultural and educational panel.
A specified number of seats should then be reserved in that panel for genuine representatives from the universities and other institutes of higher education. - Yours, etc.,
T. O'CONNOR, Churchtown, Dublin 14.