A number of candidates who look likely to win seats in the European Parliament have been called upon to declare whether they will take up their positions permanently.
Labour candidate, Ms Ivana Bacik today said the European Parliament cannot be "a half-way house for politicians who want an each-way bet on national or European politics".
She expressed concern that Fine Gael's Mr Gay Mitchell - who is running against her in the Dublin constituency - failed to clearly indicate to The Irish Timestoday that he would see out a five-year term, if elected to Strasbourg.
"Every Oireachtas member standing for the European Parliament should state their position categorically.
"It's time that established politicians who serve in the Dáil or Seanad come clean and tell voters where they stand on this fundamental issue of political representation."
A number of candidates hold Dáil and Senate seats.
According to last weekend's Irish Timesopinion poll, Fine Gael TD, Mr Gay Michell and Fianna Fáil minister of State Mr Liam Hyland look likely to win seats while Fianna Fáil's Mr Jim McDaid - also a minister of State - and independent TD, Ms Marian Harkin are running neck-and-neck for a seat.
Mr Pat "the Cope" Gallagher gave his European seat to Mr Seán O'Neachtain two years ago when he appointed a minister of State.