A vote tonight by Senators means it is now likely Ireland will hold a referendum on scrapping the Seanad in October.

The Seanad has this evening voted to scrap itself after senators approved plans to proceed with a referendum on Seanad abolition - by 29 votes to 22.

Senator John Crown says he believes there is a strong argument to fundamentally reform the Upper House. But, he says sadly, Senators will not get that chance.

Professor Crown says he will propose amendments to the legislation during the committee stage.