Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

One must have resilience when one is in politics and in government because one does not always get one's own way. The people want a stable, open and transparent Government that does what is best for all the people. I think that is what this Government is trying to do. Despite having a significant majority, the Government has provided for a reduction in the number of Deputies. I get 40% of my vote from the County Leitrim part of my constituency, but that is being moved into another constituency. Now that we are getting part of County Galway, I suppose I will have to support the Galway team. The Leas-Cheann Comhairle will agree that there are good people in that area.

The Government has also provided for the abolition of local town councils. The town council in my home town of Boyle is the only town council in County Roscommon. It is being abolished by Fine Gael, which is the party that controls the council. It has been difficult to have to say apologetically to four town councillors that their positions will not be in existence in a year's time. I must admit they have shown considerable openness and understanding. It is difficult to be understanding when someone tells one that one will not have a job in a year's time. The number of councillors on Roscommon County Council is being reduced from 26 to 18, which means that eight county councillors will lose their positions next year. Similarly, the number of councillors on Leitrim County Council is being reduced from 22 to 18. The Government, which controls the Seanad, is asking the people whether they wish to abolish that House. While it is making mistakes, the Government is trying its best to be open and transparent.

I would like to bring a few issues to the attention of the House. Dr. Theresa Reidy made an informative contribution to the convention. The Government is trying to be open and transparent and to do the right thing. During the nine years I spent in opposition, I was invited to go across the bridge to Government Buildings four times. It is probable that I was more likely to be called across to hear bad news. My party now uses a very nice parliamentary party room on the fifth floor, which has a lovely view over the city. It is very welcome.

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