Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In my experience of local authorities, although I have never served on a VEC, councillors make difficult and unpopular decisions. I was a member of a local authority that made provision for Traveller accommodation which was being resisted by the local community. We knew it was the right thing to do and we showed leadership and brought the community on board. People from the community are better placed to bring the rest of the community on board, apart from reflecting their point of view and representing them. One needs balance, but it is generally better when the local community is represented. I see the balance as being in favour of people from the local area.