In 1926 Michael Comyn became a founder member of Fianna Fáil and in 1928 he was elected as one of six Fianna Fáil Senators to the Free State Seanad under the leadership of Joseph Connolly for three years. He served as senator between 1928 and 1936 and was Leas-Chathaoirleach (deputy chairperson) of the house (1934–1936). What significant legislation was discussed with an input from Michael Comyn KC

Michael Comyn KC, as a Fianna Fáil Senator in the Irish Free State Seanad from 1928 to 1936, contributed to debates on several significant pieces of legislation and policy issues, reflecting his legal expertise and political stance. Based on available records, here are key areas where Comyn had notable input:

1. Land Purchase Annuities (1929): Comyn, alongside Gavan Duffy, advocated strongly against the payment of land annuities to the British government, a contentious issue tied to the financing of land redistribution under earlier Land Acts. His contributions in the Seanad debates on May 2, 1929, emphasized Irish national interests and opposition to financial obligations stemming from the Anglo-Irish Treaty. This issue was central to Fianna Fáil’s platform and later led to the Economic War with Britain when the government withheld annuities in 1932.
2. Bank of Ireland Bill (1929): Comyn participated in discussions on this bill, which addressed the regulation and governance of the Bank of Ireland. His input, as noted in the Oireachtas debates from May 2, 1929, likely focused on ensuring the legislation aligned with national economic interests, a key concern for Fianna Fáil during this period of asserting Irish sovereignty.
3. Wicklow Mining Lease and Select Committee (1935): Comyn was involved in debates concerning the appointment of a Select Committee to examine a mining lease in Wicklow, reflecting his background as a geologist and mine operator. On August 1, 1935, he contributed to discussions on state minerals in County Clare, emphasizing resource management and economic policy, areas where his expertise in mining law was relevant.
4. Opposition to the Oath of Allegiance: As a close legal adviser to Éamon de Valera, Comyn was vocal in his opposition to the Oath of Allegiance, a requirement under the 1922 Constitution that Fianna Fáil sought to abolish. His contributions in the Seanad, particularly in the early 1930s, supported the party’s push to remove this symbol of British influence, culminating in the Constitution (Removal of Oath) Act 1933.
5. General Seanad Contributions: Comyn was described as a “keen debater” and “hard-working and able legislator” (). His interventions often addressed legal and constitutional matters, such as the rights of married women (December 17, 1929) and social policy issues like provisions for children (May 14, 1930). He also engaged in debates on industrial policy (August 24, 1934) and responded to critiques from other senators, showcasing his combative style against political opponents.

These contributions highlight Comyn’s focus on economic sovereignty, constitutional reform, and resource management, aligning with Fianna Fáil’s broader agenda. For precise details on specific bills, further exploration of the Oireachtas debate archives (available at www.oireachtas.ie) would provide verbatim records of his speeches.

10 web pages

Land Purchase Annuities

Éamon de Valera’s policies