Irish government unhappy over referendum No

Proposal defeated by more than 100,000 votes

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Tanaiste and Leader of the Labour Party Eamon Gilmore gives a big thumbs up after Labour Partys Michael D Higgins becomes the new President of Ireland

Photo by Photo:Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland.

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McMahon said in an explanatory statement in advance of the vote that it was “not possible to state definitively what role, if any, the courts would have in reviewing the procedures adopted” by the Oireachtas if the referendum was passed.

The commission said it was satisfied that it carried out its duty with the independence and neutrality required by law.

Later, Howlin apologized for what he called “cack-handed” criticism of Judge McMahon’s role advising the public on the failed referendum.

But Howlin added that ambitious government plans for up to 10 referenda may have to be delayed. These included proposals on abolition of the senate and same-sex marriage.

The referendum had the support of all political parties, and the public rejection was an indicator that people weren’t prepared to trust politicians to carry out investigations without private citizens being certain they would have access to appeals procedures in court.

Fianna Fail opposition leader Micheal Martin blamed the government for not getting the referendum passed.

“The arrogance of the government was incredible. When eight former attorneys general come out and say there’s something wrong with this referendum then we should all pause for reflection,” he said.

In a separate referendum, also voted on the same day, there was a landslide yes vote of almost 80% that judges’ salaries be cut by almost 20%.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter said, “This proposal was fundamentally about fairness and ensuring that our judiciary were not perceived as immune from the financial difficulties affecting the state.”

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