The count in next week's presidential contest must not be conducted in an "antiseptic bubble" in Dublin Castle, said Mr Maurice Manning, the Seanad's Fine Gael leader. He understood that there was to be a limit of four supporters per candidate at the count. This would totally diminish what should be a great political event. Supporters should be permitted to attend in strength.
Supporting Mr Manning's call for clarification, Mr Joe Costello (Lab) said his understanding was that each Dail deputy or senator could invite only 10 persons each.
House leader Mr Donie Cassidy agreed with Mr Manning and would seek clarification.