One of the most bizarre aspects of being a Sinn Féin Councillor is the Christmas cards and gifts you receive from Senators from opposing political parties. In years past I have received books, ties, pens, DVDs, diaries and chocolates from senators whose parties are in bitter battles with us in a crazy bid for a senate vote. I think the only party from which I never received a senatorial gift was my own. Pearse Doherty, the cheapskate, never sent me so much as An Phoblacht souvenir keyring during his time in An Seanad.
This year (or do I say last year?), I have to say, the numbers of cards and gifts reduced dramatically from previous times.
However I am happy to report that one Ivor Callely didn't forget me (even though he has never met me)! Ivor duly sent me a wee Christmas card in which I think he describes himself as the Holy One of Israel (which may or may not be his current place of residence).
Ivor went a step further in his quest to bid me all the merriment of the Christmas season by giving me a little help with those awkward dates that will arise in 2011 by also enclosing a little calendar. I particularly like his reference to himself as having "Unwavering Energy & Dedication Born of a True Passion for Public Service". It was easier believing he was the Holy One of Israel.
It appears that there is going to be a bit of a debate on the future of the Seanad in the run up to the election and possibly (unlikely) even a referendum on election day itself. Who knows, maybe its days are numbered. Would anyone (apart from senators) even notice?
Well, in a very very very small way, I would. Because, after all, if it weren't for the Seanad and the gombeen who Bertie Ahern appointed to it I wouldn't have had one of my biggest laughs of 2010.
Happy New Year!
