Mr. Mark Lynch:

I thank the Cathaoirleach. I will touch on two points that were raised. Senator Black referred to safety and well-being, and in the context of social media as well. I am lucky enough, being a 6 ft tall male, that I do not tend to get any physical issues on the doors or at least not yet. I know this might be a little beyond the remit of this committee but social media is probably what I think is one of the most dangerous vehicles for undermining local democracy and democracy in general. This is because it is possible to have untruths, lies and incitement appearing pretty much freely now. I see this being a major issue in future and something that needs to be tackled at some level. We are making strides in this regard but this does need to happen.

The second point was made by Senator O'Reilly in respect of employee and employer situations. I empathise with this aspect. As I mentioned in my contribution, the first opportunity I had to become a councillor, I was left under no uncertain impression by my employer that it was just not going to happen. Ultimately, then, when the second opportunity came, I had to give up that job to take on this role. In hindsight, when I look back at it now dispassionately, I realise I could not have done both roles and done either justice. I would not have done both well considering the amount of work involved in what was my full-time job then and in the role of councillor. I do not know how we can square this circle. It can depend a lot on the jobs, but this certainly was an issue for me.

I also agree on what was said regarding brevity and time. As I think I got in under the four minutes on my first contribution, I am going to sit down now and get back another two minutes so we can all get to lunch. I thank the committee.